RMS current
RMS current (Root Mean Square Current) describes the current value that, in the case of a time-varying or pulsed current, would have the same electrical effect as a comparable direct current.
For Contact Probes, RMS current is particularly relevant when the current is not a steady-state constant current, but rather a pulsed current with a pulse duration (ON-time) and a pause duration (OFF-time). This ratio determines the effective current value, which is decisive for the electrical and thermal stress on the Contact Probe.
The effective current helps ensure that Contact Probes are properly designed for applications involving pulsed currents. It takes into account not only the current level during the pulse but also the duration of the load and the subsequent pause. This makes it easier to assess whether a Contact Probe is suitable for the specific current load.
For rectangular current pulses, the RMS current can be calculated simply from the pulse current and the duty cycle:
I RMS = I Pulse × √(ON-Time / (ON-Time + OFF-Time))
FAQ
For pulse currents, the RMS current is generally less than the maximum pulse current because the pause time reduces the average load.
The ON-time describes the duration of the current pulse, while the OFF-time describes the pause between pulses. Both values affect the effective current.
Effective current is the equivalent direct current value that would have the same electrical effect as an alternating or pulsed current.
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