Electrical fundamentals

Current Divider Calculator

Calculate the current in two parallel resistive branches from the total source current.

DC resistive circuits

Enter circuit values

A
Ω
Ω

Branch current

Branch 1 current
2 A
Branch 2 current1 A
Equivalent resistance6.667 Ω
Model limitsThese calculations assume ideal resistors at steady state. They do not model temperature-dependent resistance, component tolerances, reactive components, or equipment ratings.

About this calculator

Calculate the current in two parallel resistive branches from the total source current. Use measured or manufacturer-specified values where available.

Lower-resistance branches carry a larger share of the total current. The calculator reports both branch currents and the parallel equivalent resistance.

Method and assumptions

Each branch current equals total source current multiplied by that branch conductance divided by total branch conductance. Conductance is the reciprocal of resistance.

The model assumes ideal resistors with constant resistance at steady state. It excludes component tolerance, temperature rise, wiring resistance, reactive components, transients, and protective-device selection.

FAQs

Can I use this for AC circuits?

No. This calculator models ideal, steady-state DC resistors. It does not model reactance, phase angle, harmonics, or AC load behavior.

Does the result check component ratings?

No. Compare calculated voltage, current, and power with component datasheets and application limits before selecting or operating equipment.

Sources

Ideal resistor relationships from Ohm’s law and the DC power equation.