Inductors in Series Calculator

Enter your Number of Inductors and each individual inductance value (L1, L2, L3, L4) with their units, and the Inductors in Series Calculator adds them up to give you the Total Inductance — plus the result in henries and the series formula used.

Results

Total Inductance

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Total Inductance (H)

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Formula

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Individual Inductor Contribution

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find total inductance of a series circuit?

In a series circuit, inductors add together directly. The total inductance equals the sum of all individual inductances: Lt = L1 + L2 + L3 + ... This is because the same current flows through all inductors in series.

What is the inductance of three 10 mH inductors connected in series?

Three 10 mH inductors in series would have a total inductance of 30 mH (10 + 10 + 10 = 30). Each inductor contributes its full value to the total when connected in series.

What happens when I connect two inductors in series?

When two inductors are connected in series, their inductances add together. The total inductance increases, and the same current flows through both inductors, but the voltage drop across each depends on its individual inductance value.

What is the basic principle of inductors?

Inductors store energy in their magnetic field and oppose changes in current flow. They are characterized by inductance (measured in henries), which determines how much they resist current changes. Higher inductance means stronger opposition to current changes.

How do series inductors differ from parallel inductors?

In series, inductors add together (Lt = L1 + L2 + ...), increasing total inductance. In parallel, the reciprocal formula applies (1/Lt = 1/L1 + 1/L2 + ...), decreasing total inductance. Series connection increases inductance while parallel connection decreases it.

Can I mix different inductor units in series calculations?

Yes, but all values must be converted to the same unit before adding. Our calculator handles this automatically - you can input each inductor in its most convenient unit (nH, µH, mH, H, kH) and get accurate results.

What are common applications of series inductors?

Series inductors are used in filter circuits, impedance matching networks, RF circuits, and power supplies. They're commonly found in chokes, transformers, and tuned circuits where higher inductance values are needed than a single inductor can provide.

Does the order of inductors matter in a series circuit?

No, the order doesn't affect the total inductance calculation. Whether you arrange them as L1-L2-L3 or L3-L1-L2, the total inductance remains the same because addition is commutative. However, physical placement may affect other circuit characteristics like stray capacitance.

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