RMS Current

RMS is an abbreviation for the 'root mean square' mathematical process of determining the effective value of an alternating current. The RMS or effective value of a current is by definition such that the heating effect is the same for equal values of alternating- or direct-current. However, the wattage found by multiplying the average voltage by the average current is not the same as the RMS voltage times the RMS current for pulsating direct-current. The product of average voltage and average current in a pulsating direct-current circuit is sometimes called 'DC watts.' ©2004 Tigertek, Inc. All rights reserved.

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