Parallel Resistor Calculator
Calculate the equivalent resistance when multiple resistors are connected in parallel
Resistor Calculator
This diagram represents resistors in a parallel circuit. Adjusting values in the calculator will update this visualization.
Understanding Parallel Resistance
When resistors are connected in parallel:
- The same voltage appears across all resistors
- Current is divided among the parallel branches
- Total resistance is always less than the smallest resistor value
- For two resistors only: Req = (R1 × R2) / (R1 + R2)
Example Calculation
For resistors of 100Ω, 200Ω, and 300Ω in parallel:
1/Req = 1/100 + 1/200 + 1/300
1/Req = 0.01 + 0.005 + 0.00333
1/Req = 0.01833
Req = 54.55Ω
Results
Enter resistor values and calculate to see results
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Current Distribution
Applications
Current Division
Parallel circuits allow current to be divided across multiple paths in controlled ways.
Voltage Dividers
When combined with series resistors, create complex voltage dividers for signal processing.
Precision Values
Create specific resistance values by combining standard-value resistors in parallel.
Power Distribution
Distribute power across multiple components while maintaining voltage requirements.