1. What is Series Inductance?

Series inductance refers to the total inductance when multiple inductors are connected in series. In a series connection, the total inductance is simply the sum of all individual inductances.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the series inductance formula:

Where:

• \( L_{total} \) — Total series inductance (H)
• \( L_1, L_2, \ldots \) — Individual inductance values (H)

Explanation: When inductors are connected in series with no mutual inductance, their inductances simply add together to give the total inductance.

3. Importance of Series Inductance Calculation

Details: Calculating total series inductance is essential for circuit design, filter design, power electronics, and understanding how inductive components behave when connected in series configurations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter inductance values separated by commas (e.g., "0.5, 1.2, 0.8"). All values must be valid (non-negative numbers). At least two inductance values are required.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this calculation account for mutual inductance?
A: No, this simple formula assumes no mutual inductance between the inductors. If mutual inductance exists, the calculation becomes more complex.

Q2: What units should I use for inductance values?
A: The calculator uses Henry (H) as the unit. You can enter values in millihenries (mH) or microhenries (μH) but must convert them to Henry first (1H = 1000mH = 1,000,000μH).

Q3: Can I add more than two inductors in series?
A: Yes, you can add any number of inductors in series. The formula extends to L_total = L1 + L2 + L3 + ... + Ln.

Q4: How does series inductance affect circuit behavior?
A: Series inductors combine to create a larger total inductance, which increases the circuit's opposition to changes in current and affects time constants in RL circuits.

Q5: What's the difference between series and parallel inductance?
A: In series, inductances add directly. In parallel, the reciprocal of the total inductance equals the sum of the reciprocals of individual inductances (1/L_total = 1/L1 + 1/L2 + ...).