About LED Inrush Current Calculator (Formula)
An LED inrush current calculator is a tool used to estimate the initial surge of current that flows into an LED (Light Emitting Diode) when it is first powered on. Inrush current can occur due to the charging of capacitors or other components within the LED driver circuit.
The formula for calculating inrush current in an LED circuit is based on Ohm’s law and can be represented as follows:
Inrush Current (I_inrush) = (V_supply / R_limit)
Where:
- I_inrush is the inrush current in amperes (A).
- V_supply is the supply voltage in volts (V).
- R_limit is the limiting or current-limiting resistor’s resistance in ohms (Ω).
The inrush current is highest when the LED is first powered on and gradually decreases as capacitors charge and the LED reaches a steady-state operating condition. A current-limiting resistor is often used in series with the LED to control the inrush current and protect the LED from excessive current that could damage it.
To use the LED inrush current calculator, you need to know the supply voltage (V_supply) and the resistance of the current-limiting resistor (R_limit) in your LED circuit. By plugging these values into the formula above, you can estimate the inrush current when the LED is powered on.
It’s important to note that the inrush current is a transient condition that occurs for a very short duration when the LED is initially energized. Once the LED reaches its steady-state operating condition, the current typically stabilizes at a lower level determined by the resistor and LED characteristics. Properly calculating and limiting inrush current is important to ensure the LED’s long-term reliability and prevent damage.