

The cross area of the trace (width and thickness) is what defines the amount of current that it can handle. In order to dissipate this unwanted heat, you need to use a larger trace. The more current that is running in a trace, the hotter the temperature that the trace will operate at. The problem that you are trying to avoid is an abundance of heat. Why a PCB Trace Width vs Current Table is Needed Here are some examples of why a PCB trace width vs current table is important, and how it can help on your next design. Those traces that are conducting power, however, require more attention to make sure that they will not burn up. Most signals do just fine through the regular trace widths that are routed on the board. One way to do this is to ensure that the traces in your PCB design are wide enough to handle the current being passed through them. The best way to avoid this kind of stress is to prevent such thermal problems from happening in the first place. Then your boss will appear, and you will really start to sweat. There is also the inevitable joker in the crowd who will innocently suggest that this kind of testing should be reserved for the winter when it is cold outside. Whatever the symptoms may be, the results are usually the same: everyone will gather around and start pestering you with annoying questions. You may even get some actual flames, prompting someone to grab a fire extinguisher.

Maybe you will only get a small wisp of smoke, or perhaps you’ll hear something pop. I will not be held responsible for any mishap or loss, either direct or consequential, that may occur as a result of relying on the figures herein.One way to really get your heart racing is to have a little thermal accident when first powering up a new printed circuit board during testing. This calculator can help you find the size you need for high-power traces.ĭisclaimer:The figures returned by this calculator are to be taken as a guide only. Those traces may need to be a little wider than the normal traces used for standard signals. When making PCBs you sometimes needs a trace that will handle a lot of current. Rather donate hardware directly? Then click here. And use any of my projects or libraries, and would like to encourage further development you can donate through PayPal here:
