4PCB Calculator Comparison
Advanced Circuits vs TraceWidthCalculator
Comparing 4PCB (Advanced Circuits) trace width calculator with TraceWidthCalculator. See how our free online tool offers more features including via current and impedance calculations.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
| Feature | 4PCB Calculator | TraceWidthCalculator |
|---|---|---|
| Trace Width (IPC-2221) | ✓ | ✓ |
| Via Current Calculator | ✗ | ✓ |
| Impedance Calculator | ✗ | ✓ |
| Differential Impedance | ✗ | ✓ |
| Multiple Copper Weights | ✓ | ✓ |
| Internal/External Layers | ✓ | ✓ |
| Mobile Responsive | ✗ | ✓ |
| Dark Mode UI | ✗ | ✓ |
Why TraceWidthCalculator Offers More
Via Current Analysis
4PCB only offers trace width calculations. We include a complete via current calculator for determining PTH current capacity and designing thermal via arrays—essential for power electronics.
Impedance Calculator
Calculate controlled impedance for high-speed designs. Microstrip, stripline, and differential pair calculations—features not available in the 4PCB calculator.
Modern Mobile UI
Fully responsive design works on any device. Calculate trace widths on your phone during design reviews or board bring-up—something the dated 4PCB interface struggles with.
About 4PCB / Advanced Circuits
4PCB (now branded as Advanced Circuits) is a well-known PCB manufacturer based in Colorado, USA. They offer a simple trace width calculator on their website as a free tool for customers.
Their calculator implements the basic IPC-2221 formula for trace width based on current, copper weight, and layer type. It's a useful tool, but limited in scope compared to comprehensive PCB design calculators.
TraceWidthCalculator.com provides the same core functionality plus additional tools that 4PCB doesn't offer, making it a more complete solution for PCB designers.
4PCB Calculator Specs
TraceWidthCalculator Extras
Try Our Enhanced Calculator
Get all the functionality of 4PCB's calculator plus via current, impedance, and more. Free, no signup required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the trace width results the same as 4PCB?
Yes. Both calculators use the IPC-2221 standard formula, so trace width results should be identical for the same input parameters (current, copper weight, temperature rise, layer type).
Why does TraceWidthCalculator have more features?
4PCB is primarily a PCB manufacturer, and their calculator is a basic customer tool. TraceWidthCalculator is dedicated to providing comprehensive PCB design calculations, which is why we include via current, impedance, and other advanced tools.
Should I still use 4PCB for manufacturing?
Absolutely! 4PCB/Advanced Circuits is a reputable PCB manufacturer. Use TraceWidthCalculator for your design calculations, then order your boards from whichever manufacturer best fits your needs.
Is this affiliated with 4PCB or Advanced Circuits?
No. TraceWidthCalculator is an independent, free tool. 4PCB and Advanced Circuits are trademarks of their respective owners. We provide this comparison to help engineers choose the right tools.
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