Use this electronics calculation for a first-pass component, converter, signal, motor, or sensor estimate when the stated operating conditions and units match the device data.

Allowed output ripple (mV)

Required number input.

Ripple current (A)

Required number input.

Compute the maximum output capacitor ESR in milliohms that keeps ripple-induced ripple voltage within budget as ripple millivolts over ripple amperes. The tool evaluates the supplied inputs together and returns the named outputs below; it does not infer omitted operating conditions or change the units shown.^[1]

ESR limit (mΩ)

The resulting esr limit returned as a number.

• Capacitance, ESR, leakage, ripple rating, lifetime, and self-resonance vary with frequency, temperature, DC bias, aging, dielectric, package, and mounting. Nominal capacitance alone does not determine in-circuit impedance or reliability.
• Use finite inputs in the displayed units and preserve more precision than the final presentation requires. Independently verify safety-critical, financial, compliance, or production decisions.

Check the result against the current datasheet and worst-case operating corners, then verify the circuit or measurement with simulation and bench testing where failure matters.

• Output Ripple Buck

  Compute buck converter output ripple voltage in the ESR-less form dI_L / (8 x f x Cout).

• Solar Panel Max Power Current

  Maximum-power-point current from measured maximum output power and voltage at that same operating point.

• Solar Panel Max Power Voltage

  Maximum-power-point voltage from measured maximum output power and current at that same operating point.