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Free calculator · Electrical basics

DC Cable Voltage Drop Calculator

Estimate resistive voltage drop with a manufacturer-provided conductor resistance. This tool is deliberately limited to DC.

Interactive calculator · explicit assumptions

DC Cable Voltage Drop Calculator

Calculations run in your browser. Sharing puts numeric assumptions in the link. No registration required.

Formula

Loop resistance = 2 × one-way length × Ω/km ÷ 1,000. Voltage drop = A × loop resistance.

Worked example

100 A over a 50 m one-way circuit at 0.5 Ω/km gives 5 V drop, or 10.42% at 48 V.

What this calculation does not cover

Assumes equal outgoing and return conductors; ignores contacts and parallel conductors. Enter resistance at the intended operating temperature. Does not calculate ampacity or AC reactance, and does not certify an allowable drop.

Using the result responsibly

Keep a record of the input units and operating assumptions. A change in one input can make two apparently similar equipment options impossible to compare. Export the scenario before reviewing it with your engineer or equipment manufacturer.

Educational planning only. These tools do not replace a licensed professional’s design, a manufacturer selection study or applicable local requirements.