There is a very simple equation for calculating the wattage of an electronic device. We only need to know the number of amperes and volts of the device. Understanding watts is important because it can help us save money and energy.
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Method 1 of 3: Determining Watts with Mathematical Calculations
Step 1. Know the wattage on the power source
You need to know the amperage and volts on the power source. The formula for determining watts is simple. Ampere is the amount of electricity used. Voltage measures the power or electrical voltage.
- The number of watts is equal to amperes times volts. In other words, watts = amperes x volts. Sometimes, the formula is written with the abbreviation W = A x V.
- For example, if the current is 3 amperes (3A) and the voltage is 110 V, multiply 3 by 110 to get 330 W (watts). The formula is P = 3 A x 110 V = 330 W (P is power).
- That's why watts are sometimes called volt-amperes. The number of amperes is usually listed on the circuit breaker. This number is the maximum amperage the circuit can accept. You can also determine volts and amperes by looking at the label or user manual. In addition, you can also look up numbers on standard electronics (most small electronics and light fittings in the home require a circuit of 15–20 amperes and large appliances require 20–60 amperes. However, most household electronics have 120 amperes). volts and operates at 12 amperes or less. Large electronics such as electric stoves and clothes dryers require more electricity, are connected to a circuit rated at 240 volts and may use 20–40 amperes depending on several factors. Household wiring is usually 120 or 240 volts.
Step 2. Determine amperes or volts in the same way
You can rotate the formula to calculate it. For example, say you have a 24-40 AC power supply. This means that your power supply is 240 volts and 40 watts.
- The power source can supply 1.6 amperes. The formula is 40-? X 24. So, divide 40 by 24 to get 1, 6.
- Here's another reason to specify amperes and volts. Let's say you want to find out how many watts a fan is using, and the label indicates that the fan is using a certain number of amperes. You can find out the number of volts the fan normally uses (by calling the manufacturer or looking online), multiply the two numbers, and come up with an estimate of the wattage required to run the fan.
Step 3. Determine the wattage of the resistor
If you want to find the wattage of the resistor, you need to know the voltage (V) and the current (I). This is called Ohm's law.
- The formula is voltage times current, W = V x I.. Sometimes you will see the formula written with P for power (power)
- This formula will be more complicated if the electric power changes. You have to use the time period to get the average. This calculation is difficult and requires a certain piece of equipment called a watt meter.
Method 2 of 3: Determining Wattage with Tools
Step 1. Find a calculator online
There are many watt calculation programs on the internet. The program will do the calculations for you.
- Usually, you are asked to enter the number of volts and the number of amperes. Then, you have to press the "calculate" or "calculate" button to get the result.
- However, keep in mind that online calculators are not always accurate because all electronic devices require different electrical power.
- There are sites online that provide wattage information if you click on a specific type, such as a television or desktop computer. Such sites sometimes provide a list of the watts used by various electronic devices, from refrigerators to radio tapes.
Step 2. Check the information on the electronic device
You can find out the required wattage just by looking at the information on the data plate.
- Look for the plate behind the electronics. Usually, the plate lists how many volts, amperes, and watts it takes to power it. This information is listed on the back of the electronic device. Or, you can find the wattage on the nameplate.
- You can also plug a watt meter into an electronic device and state the electrical power required to power it. The wattage of electronic devices varies depending on the settings. For example, a radio uses more watts if the volume is high.
Method 3 of 3: Understanding Power Sources
Step 1. Understand why wattage matters
Power in watts is the amount of energy produced or used. The electricity bill is based on how many watts you use. Basically, watts indicate how much energy an electronic device uses.
- Rated wattage is the number of watts needed to keep an electronic device on. For example, a refrigerator typically requires 500 watts to run continuously. You need to know the wattage in your home if you want to save energy, add solar panels, or use a generator.
- The power source has both AC and DC current. AC is an alternating current that keeps changing direction and is used in electrical installations in homes and offices. DC is direct current, which only moves in one direction. An example of the use of DC is in batteries.
- Surge watts is the number of watts required as an initial pull when first starting the engine or compressor of an electronic device. For example, it takes 2,000 watts to power the engine and compressor of a refrigerator.
Step 2. Try to save energy
Watt is the basic unit of power (electric, mechanical, or thermal). The reason understanding wattage is that it helps save energy.
- Reduce wattage to save energy and costs. For example, there are two choices of light bulbs that you want to buy, one is 100 watts and the other is 23 watts. If a 100-watt bulb was cheaper, you might think it's frugal. However, over time, you'll save more if you buy a 23-watt bulb.
- Calculate wattage difference with a simple counting operation. In the above case it is 77 watts (100 - 23). PLN charges electricity costs in kilowatts. To get kilowatts, divide watts by 1000. Then, multiply the number in kilowatts by the hours of use. The result is kilowatts per hour (kwh). Then, multiply by the cost of electricity. That's your bill.
- For example, you have 10 lamps. Each has 100 watts of power. So, 10 x 100 = 1,000 watts. Divide 1,000 watts by 1,000 to get 1 kw. Let's say you use 2,000 hours of electricity per year. So, 1 kw x 2,000 hours per year = 2,000 kwh. For example, your electricity tariff is Rp. 1,000, - per kwh. You have to pay 2,000 kwh x Rp. 1,000, - = Rp. 2,000,000, - per year to use the ten light bulbs.
Tips
Be prepared for a surge in wattage on every electronic device plugged into the circuit/inverter. Many electronics continue to use power when turned off, especially on devices with LED lights that are constantly on
Warning
- Connecting too many electronic devices to the inverter may result in a decrease in the power of the device. The device will be easily damaged or turned off.
- If you draw too much power through the inverter, there is a risk that the inverter may be damaged.
- Figures are estimates only. So, if you want a specific and accurate number of watts, use a watt meter.
