Battery Time Equation:
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The Battery Time Calculator estimates how long a battery will last powering a specific load. It calculates runtime based on battery capacity (Ah), voltage (V), and load power consumption (W).
The calculator uses the equation:
Where:
Explanation: The equation converts battery capacity to watt-hours (Ah × V) then divides by the load power to determine runtime.
Details: Accurate battery runtime estimation is crucial for system design, backup power planning, and ensuring uninterrupted operation of critical devices.
Tips: Enter battery capacity in Ah, battery voltage in V, and load power in W. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What's the difference between Ah and Wh?
A: Ah (amp-hours) measures charge capacity, while Wh (watt-hours) measures energy capacity (Ah × V). Wh accounts for voltage differences between battery types.
Q2: Does this account for battery efficiency?
A: No, this is theoretical maximum. Real-world runtime may be 10-30% less due to temperature, discharge rate, and battery age.
Q3: Can I use this for lithium-ion batteries?
A: Yes, but lithium batteries often have more usable capacity than lead-acid at high discharge rates.
Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but actual runtime depends on discharge rate, temperature, and battery condition.
Q5: What if my load varies?
A: For variable loads, calculate average power consumption or worst-case scenario for maximum power draw.