Home Back

Calculate Peak Voltage

Peak Voltage Formula:

\[ V_{peak} = V_{RMS} \times \sqrt{2} \]

volts

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From: To:

1. What is Peak Voltage?

Peak voltage is the maximum voltage value in an alternating current (AC) waveform. It represents the highest point reached by the voltage during each cycle of the AC signal.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the peak voltage formula:

\[ V_{peak} = V_{RMS} \times \sqrt{2} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula converts RMS voltage to peak voltage by multiplying by the square root of 2, which is the relationship between these two voltage measurements in a sinusoidal AC waveform.

3. Importance of Peak Voltage Calculation

Details: Calculating peak voltage is essential for designing and analyzing AC circuits, selecting appropriate components with proper voltage ratings, and ensuring electrical safety in power systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the RMS voltage value in volts. The value must be positive and greater than zero. The calculator will compute the corresponding peak voltage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between RMS and peak voltage?
A: RMS voltage represents the equivalent DC voltage that would deliver the same power, while peak voltage is the maximum instantaneous voltage value in an AC waveform.

Q2: Why is the square root of 2 used in the conversion?
A: For a pure sinusoidal waveform, the relationship between RMS and peak voltage is mathematically defined by the factor √2, which comes from the waveform's mathematical properties.

Q3: Does this formula work for all AC waveforms?
A: No, this formula specifically applies to pure sinusoidal waveforms. Other waveform types (square, triangle, sawtooth) have different conversion factors.

Q4: What are typical applications of peak voltage calculation?
A: Circuit design, component selection (capacitors, diodes), power supply design, electrical safety analysis, and waveform analysis in various electrical engineering applications.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically exact for ideal sinusoidal waveforms. In real-world applications, factors like waveform distortion may affect the accuracy.

Calculate Peak Voltage© - All Rights Reserved 2025