Science

Resistor Calculator

Calculate equivalent values for resistors, capacitors, and inductors in series or parallel. Essential for electronics design and education.

Ω
Ω

Calculate Series and Parallel Circuits

Whether you're designing a circuit or solving homework problems, our Resistor Calculator instantly computes equivalent values for resistors, capacitors, and inductors. Simply select your component type, connection method, and enter your values.

How Series and Parallel Calculations Work

In series circuits, components are connected end-to-end, so current flows through each one. In parallel circuits, components share the same two nodes, so voltage is the same across each. The formulas differ for each configuration and component type.

Key Formulas

Series: R_eq = R₁ + R₂ + ... | Parallel: 1/R_eq = 1/R₁ + 1/R₂ + ...

Why Use This Calculator?

Multi-Component Support

Works with resistors, capacitors, and inductors.

Automatic Unit Conversion

Displays results in appropriate units (Ω, kΩ, MΩ, etc.).

Step-by-Step Solutions

See the complete calculation breakdown.

How to Use

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Common Applications

Circuit Design

Find the right combination to achieve target values.

Education

Learn and verify series/parallel calculations.

Troubleshooting

Calculate expected values for circuit testing.

Component Selection

Combine available parts to get needed values.

Frequently Asked Questions

Capacitors store charge differently than resistors dissipate energy. In parallel, capacitors combine their charge storage (add directly). In series, the effective capacitance decreases because charge must be shared.