Based on the IPC-2221 standard, the PCB Trace Width Calculation determines the required width of a copper trace to carry a specified current while keeping the temperature rise within a set limit. If the trace length is provided, it also calculates total trace resistance, voltage drop, and power loss. It is important to note that traces on inner layers require significantly greater width than those on external layers.
Please use the appropriate result for your design, and keep in mind that all outputs are estimates—actual performance may vary depending on specific application conditions.
Minimum Trace Width
mil
Internal Layers
Minimum Trace Width
mil
External Layers in Air
Formula
First, calculate the Area:
Then, calculate the Width:
For IPC-2221 internal layers:
k = 0.024, b = 0.44, c = 0.725
For IPC-2221 external layers:
k = 0.048, b = 0.44, c = 0.725
where k, b, and c are constants resulting from curve fitting to the IPC-2221 curves.