IntermediateTopic 38 of 106Electrical Engineering
RMS value
The DC-equivalent heating value of an AC waveform; Vrms=Vpeak/√2 for a sine.
In depth
V_rms=√(mean of v²). For a sine, V_rms=V_m/√2≈0.707V_m. It gives the equivalent DC heating effect. Square waves have V_rms=V_m; triangle V_m/√3. Use true-RMS meters for distorted waves.
Key points
- Same power in a resistor as DC
- Crest factor=V_peak/V_rms
- Form factor
Example10 V peak sine heats a resistor like 7.07 V DC.
What is RMS value?
The DC-equivalent heating value of an AC waveform; Vrms=Vpeak/√2 for a sine.
Why is it important to understand RMS value?
RMS value is what sets the heating effect and power of AC, so it is the standard way to quote AC voltage and current.
Why is RMS used instead of the average?
The average of a sine wave over a full cycle is zero, so RMS is used because it matches the heating effect of an equal DC value.
Do ordinary multimeters read true RMS?
Many only read RMS for pure sine waves. True RMS meters are needed for distorted or nonsinusoidal waveforms.
How is RMS value used in practice?
Typical applications include reading the 230 V RMS mains voltage on a nameplate, calculating the power delivered to a heater from an AC supply and choosing a meter that reads true RMS for distorted waveforms.
What should I learn before RMS value?
Study "Sinusoidal AC" first (topic 37 of 106 in Electrical Engineering). It covers the groundwork this topic builds on.
What are the key points of RMS value?
Same power in a resistor as DC. Crest factor=V_peak/V_rms. Form factor.
Can you give an example of RMS value?
10 V peak sine heats a resistor like 7.07 V DC.
What comes after RMS value?
The next topic is "Phasors", which builds directly on this one.
How difficult is RMS value?
It is classed as Intermediate in Electrical Engineering (topic 38 of 106). It is an intermediate topic. Work through the beginner topics in Electrical Engineering first.