PCB Trace Width Calculator
Professional PCB Design & Analysis Tools
Calculate optimal PCB trace width based on industry-standard IPC-2221 specifications. Our free online trace width calculator helps hardware engineers determine minimum conductor width for given current, temperature rise, and copper weight.
IPC-2221 Compliant
Our PCB trace width calculator uses official IPC-2221 standard formulas (I = k × ΔT^0.44 × A^0.725), ensuring your designs meet industry requirements for current carrying capacity and thermal management.
Precise Calculations
Get accurate results for trace width, resistance, voltage drop, and power dissipation. Supports both internal and external layer calculations with automatic unit conversion between mils and millimeters.
Engineering-Grade Tools
Beyond basic trace width calculation, access our complete tool suite including via current calculator and impedance calculator for comprehensive PCB design.
Input Parameters
MOD: TR_WID_V1Results
Why Use Our PCB Trace Width Calculator?
Thermal Design Optimization
Properly sized PCB traces prevent overheating and ensure reliable operation. Our calculator supports copper weights from 0.5oz to 4oz and temperature rises from 5°C to 100°C.
Internal vs External Layer Support
External layers dissipate heat 2× more efficiently than internal layers. Our trace calculator automatically applies correct IPC-2221 constants (k=0.048 external, k=0.024 internal) for accurate results.
Complete Electrical Analysis
Beyond trace width, calculate DC resistance, voltage drop, and power loss to ensure your power distribution network meets design requirements.
High Current Designs (1A - 35A+)
Whether designing milliamp signal traces or 35A+ power rails, our PCB trace width calculator handles any current requirement with appropriate safety margins.
Copy & Export Results
Easily copy calculated trace widths and parameters for documentation, design reviews, or integration into your PCB CAD software.
100% Free, No Registration
Instant access to professional-grade PCB trace calculations. No signup, no subscription, unlimited use. Built by engineers, for engineers.
Complete PCB Design Calculator Suite
Our trace width calculator is part of a comprehensive toolkit for PCB designers. Use these companion tools for complete electrical and thermal analysis.
Via Current Calculator
LIVECalculate via current carrying capacity based on IPC-2221 standard. Free tool for plated through-hole thermal analysis and via array design optimization.
Try Calculator →Impedance Calculator
LIVECalculate characteristic impedance for microstrip, stripline, and differential pairs. Free tool for controlled impedance PCB design and signal integrity analysis.
Try Calculator →BOM Optimizer
BETAAnalyze component lifecycle status, cost optimization, and supply chain risk. Free BOM management tool for obsolescence tracking and alternate part selection.
Try Calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
PCB Trace Width Quick Reference
*Approximate values at 10°C rise. Use calculator for precise results.
Via Current Reference
→ Full Via CalculatorIPC-2221 Standard Formula
- I = Current (Amps)
- k = 0.048 (External) / 0.024 (Internal)
- ΔT = Temperature Rise (°C)
- A = Cross-sectional Area (mil²)
Why Choose TraceWidthCalculator
- VS Saturn PCBFaster UI
- VS 4PCB OnlineMore Precise
- VS Altium Tool100% Free
- VS EEWeb CalcBetter UX
Related Articles & Guides
IPC-2221 vs IPC-2152: Which to Use?
A comprehensive comparison of the two major PCB current carrying capacity standards. Learn when to use each and how they differ in trace width calculations.
PCB Copper Weight: 0.5oz vs 1oz vs 2oz
Compare 0.5oz, 1oz, and 2oz PCB copper weights. Real-world applications, cost trade-offs, and trace width impacts explained.
10 Common PCB Trace Width Mistakes
Avoid costly PCB redesigns by learning the most common trace width mistakes. From temperature rise to manufacturing tolerances.
5 Free PCB Calculators for Engineers
Essential online calculators for PCB design: trace width, via current, impedance, and more. Boost your productivity with these free tools.
Other PCB Calculators
Via Current Calculator
Calculate via current carrying capacity based on IPC-2221 standard. Free tool for plated through-hole thermal analysis and via array design optimization.
Try Calculator →Impedance Calculator
Calculate characteristic impedance for microstrip, stripline, and differential pairs. Free tool for controlled impedance PCB design and signal integrity analysis.
Try Calculator →Related Tools & Resources
Via Current Calculator
CalculatorCalculate via current carrying capacity based on IPC-2221 standard. Free tool for plated through-hole thermal analysis and via array design optimization.
Impedance Calculator
CalculatorCalculate characteristic impedance for microstrip, stripline, and differential pairs. Free tool for controlled impedance PCB design and signal integrity analysis.
Current Capacity Calculator
CalculatorDetermine maximum current a trace can safely carry
Differential Impedance Calculator
CalculatorDesign differential pairs for USB, HDMI, PCIe, and other high-speed interfaces
Pad Size Calculator
CalculatorCalculate optimal pad sizes with annular ring requirements per IPC
Thermal Relief Calculator
CalculatorDesign thermal relief patterns for solderable plane connections
Ready to Calculate Your PCB Trace Width?
Use the free IPC-2221 trace width calculator above, or explore our other PCB design tools for comprehensive electrical analysis. Check out our blog for in-depth PCB design guides and tutorials.