1. What is Parallel Inductance?

The equivalent inductance (L_eq) of inductors connected in parallel is calculated differently from resistors in parallel. The reciprocal of the total inductance equals the sum of the reciprocals of the individual inductances.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the parallel inductance formula:

Where:

• \( L_{eq} \) — Equivalent parallel inductance (H)
• \( L_i \) — Individual inductance values (H)
• \( n \) — Number of inductors in parallel

Explanation: Unlike resistors, inductors in parallel combine through reciprocal summation. The total inductance is always less than the smallest individual inductor in the parallel combination.

3. Importance of Parallel Inductance Calculation

Details: Calculating parallel inductance is essential for circuit design, filter creation, and energy storage applications. It helps determine the overall inductive reactance in AC circuits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter inductance values in Henries (H), separated by commas. All values must be positive numbers. Example: "0.5, 1.2, 0.3"

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How does parallel inductance compare to series inductance?
A: Parallel inductance decreases the total inductance, while series inductance adds up the individual values (L_series = L₁ + L₂ + ... + L_n).

Q2: What happens when two identical inductors are in parallel?
A: The total inductance is half of one inductor's value (L_eq = L/2 for two identical inductors).

Q3: Does mutual inductance affect parallel calculations?
A: Yes, if inductors are magnetically coupled, additional terms must be included in the calculation.

Q4: What's the practical application of parallel inductors?
A: Used in power supplies, RF circuits, and anywhere needing reduced inductance with increased current capacity.

Q5: How does frequency affect parallel inductors?
A: At high frequencies, parasitic capacitance and skin effect may alter the actual behavior from the ideal calculation.