EEK! #6 - AC Power, RMS, & VA vs W

You probably do this all the time, but you don't even know it.

I'm talking about AC power calculations with P = V x I.

Technically, it works. But when you think about it, it shouldn't. AC has constantly changing voltage and current over time - unlike DC.

So how on earth does it work?

Well, the short version is: RMS, or root mean square!

The long version involves a (simplified) explanation of AC power involving Watts, Volt-Amperes, and Power Factor.

But not to worry: At the end of the day, you can safely use P = V x I with AC, and you'll still end up with a result that's close enough for horseshoes!

More techie tips: https://scottiestech.info