Power Consumption and Current Calculation for Personal Computer and Laser Printer
What is the rms value of the current carried by the power cord of a personal computer with 60W power consumption at 110V (rms)?
a) The rms value of the current carried by the power cord of the personal computer is approximately 0.55 A.
If a laser printer with 80W power consumption is plugged into the same wall outlet as the computer, what is the total rms value of the current drawn from the outlet?
b) The rms value of the current drawn from the outlet when both the computer and laser printer are plugged in is approximately 1.27 A.
Explanation:
a) To calculate the rms current for the personal computer, we can use the formula P = VI, where P is the power in watts, V is the voltage in volts, and I is the current in amperes. Given that the power is 60 W and the voltage is 110 V (rms), we rearrange the formula to solve for I: I = P / V = 60 W / 110 V ≈ 0.545 A. So, the rms value of the current for the computer is approximately 0.55 A.
b) To find the total rms current drawn from the outlet when both the computer and laser printer are plugged in, we simply add their individual currents. For the computer, the current is 0.55 A. For the laser printer, the current is approximately 0.727 A. Now, we add these currents together: Total rms current = 0.55 A (computer) + 0.727 A (printer) ≈ 1.277 A. So, the rms value of the current drawn from the outlet when both the computer and laser printer are plugged in is approximately 1.27 A.
Electricity powers our devices and understanding the power consumption and current flow is crucial. In the scenario provided, we have a personal computer and a laser printer connected to the same wall outlet.
For the personal computer with 60W power consumption at 110V (rms), the rms value of the current carried by its power cord is calculated to be approximately 0.55 A. This current is essential for the computer to operate efficiently and reliably.
When the laser printer, rated at 80W, is plugged into the same wall outlet as the computer, the total rms value of the current drawn from the outlet increases. The additional current drawn by the printer is approximately 0.727 A, resulting in a total current drawn from the outlet of approximately 1.27 A.
It is important to consider the power consumption and current requirements of electronic devices to ensure the safety and optimal performance of the electrical system. By calculating the rms current values, we can effectively manage the electrical load and prevent overloading circuits.