USB Voltage Drop Calculator

Calculate the expected voltage drop along a USB cable given its length, current draw, and wire gauge.

Approximate calculation; check manufacturer specs for exact values.

Examples

  • 2 A, 1 m, AWG 28 ⇒ 0.86 V
  • 1 A, 2 m, AWG 24 ⇒ 0.34 V

FAQ

Why multiply by two for length?

Current travels to the device and back, doubling the resistance.

What if my gauge is different?

Use the closest AWG value; results are approximate.

Can voltage drop cause charging issues?

Yes, excessive drop can prevent devices from receiving sufficient power.

Additional Information

  • Based on ohmic resistance per conductor.
  • USB standards recommend keeping drop below 0.25 V for reliable operation.