RLC Series Circuit Calculator

An RLC series circuit connects a resistor, inductor, and capacitor in sequence — this calculator analyzes how the circuit behaves at any given frequency. Enter your Resistance (R), Inductance (L), Capacitance (C), Frequency, and Source Voltage into the RLC Series Circuit Calculator to get the Total Impedance (Z), along with Current, Phase Angle, Resonant Frequency, Q-Factor, Inductive Reactance (XL), and Capacitive Reactance (XC). Also try the calculate RLC Parallel Circuit Total Impedance (Z).

Results

Total Impedance (Z)

Current (I)

Phase Angle (φ)

Resonant Frequency

Q-Factor

Inductive Reactance (XL)

Capacitive Reactance (XC)

What is an RLC series circuit?

An RLC series circuit consists of a resistor (R), inductor (L), and capacitor (C) connected in series. The same current flows through all components, but the voltages across each component may differ in magnitude and phase. See also our LC Tank Circuit Calculator.

What is the resonant frequency of an RLC circuit?

The resonant frequency is the frequency at which the inductive reactance equals the capacitive reactance, causing them to cancel out. At this frequency, the circuit impedance is minimized and equals the resistance value.

How do I calculate the impedance of an RLC series circuit?

The total impedance Z is calculated using the formula: Z = √[R² + (XL - XC)²], where XL is inductive reactance and XC is capacitive reactance. The reactances depend on frequency. You might also find our Quality Factor (Q) Calculator useful.

What is the Q-factor in an RLC circuit?

The Q-factor (quality factor) measures the circuit's selectivity and energy storage relative to energy dissipation. It's calculated as Q = (1/R) × √(L/C) for a series RLC circuit.

Why does phase angle matter in RLC circuits?

The phase angle indicates whether the circuit is capacitive (negative angle) or inductive (positive angle). At resonance, the phase angle is zero, meaning voltage and current are in phase.

Where are RLC circuits commonly used?

RLC circuits are used in radio tuning circuits, filters, oscillators, and impedance matching networks. They're fundamental building blocks in electronics for frequency-selective applications.