If you’re noticing decreased efficiency in your electronic systems and equipment, they may be experiencing what’s known as voltage drop. While power supply voltage drops can be damaging, understanding the basics and how to combat them can help you prevent future harm and protect your equipment. Keep reading to make sure you understand what a voltage drop is, common causes, and how to reduce the risk of voltage drops.
What is a Voltage Drop?
A supply voltage drop describes how the energy of a power supply decreases as the electrical current flows through passive elements in an electrical circuit. The potential for voltage drop increases with the length of the circuit. The further the electricity travels from the power supply, the higher the risk of voltage drop, resulting in weaker currents and decreased power.
Excessive voltage drop can be damaging and may lead to disruptions, inefficient electrical systems, and even mechanical harm. These issues can negatively impact your electrical equipment, potentially resulting in higher operating costs and decreased productivity. Understanding some of the most common sources of voltage drops can help you better prepare for and prevent damage to your electrical systems.
Common Causes of Supply Voltage Drop
- Length of the power cable
- Cable gauge size
- Using AC power over DC power
- Amount of current at the power supply
- Power line resistance
How to Measure Voltage Drop
While small amounts of voltage drop are expected―especially for lengthy electrical circuits―monitoring for excessive voltage drop can help protect your equipment and prevent harm.
Ohm’s law describes a formula to calculate the proportional relationship between voltage, current, and resistance. The formula to calculate voltage drop is:
V = I x R
Where V represents voltage, I represents current, and R represents resistance. For further assistance in calculating voltage drop, contact a team member at Quail Electronics, Inc.
Minimize Voltage Drop in Your Power Supply
You can use various techniques to compensate for the effect of voltage drop on long circuits or where voltage levels must be accurately maintained.
- Appropriate Wire Size: The most important factor in avoiding excessive voltage drop is selecting the correct wire size. Choose a wire gauge appropriate for the distance and current you require to best reduce resistance in your system.
- Increase Conductor Size: One of the simplest ways to reduce voltage drop is to increase the diameter of the conductor between the source and the load, lowering the overall resistance.
- Routine Inspection: Regularly examining your power cables and electrical systems will help you quickly identify any significant voltage drop. Make any necessary repairs as fast as possible to avoid lasting damage or costly maintenance.
- Specialized Power Supply Design: Custom-made power cords and connectors can help you easily balance power loads and regulate voltage levels for improved performance.
- High Voltage Power Cables: Using high-voltage power cords increases the amount of voltage flowing through a circuit and minimizes the amount of current. Higher voltage levels result in decreased voltage drop.
Learn more about global voltage standards with our helpful International Voltage and Frequency Guide.
Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. Today with Any Questions
With over 30 years of industry experience, Quail Electronics, Inc. is a leading expert in all things electronic. We offer competitive pricing, convenient same-day shipping, and minimal order requirements to get you precisely what you need for your applications. Our trained specialists can answer any questions and help you choose the best types of power cords for your requirements.
For more information about supply voltage drop and how to protect your electrical equipment, contact Quail Electronics, Inc. today, and our team will assist you with any questions.