Step-by-step walkthrough

Power Factor Calculator Guide

Use this companion guide beside the interactive calculator to make sure you understand the “why” behind every click. Each section includes the classroom explanation, student-friendly language, and quick practice prompts.

Before you start

Collect the data points listed below and double-check their units. Keeping an organized “givens” list is one of the fastest ways to reduce math errors and impress exam graders.

  • power factor
  • pf
  • apparent power

Detailed procedure

  1. Step 1

    Enter voltage and current RMS values.

  2. Step 2

    Provide either the phase angle or real power.

  3. Step 3

    Review power factor, apparent power, reactive power, and phase angle cohesively.

Teaching & troubleshooting tips

How do I correct low power factor?

Use the reactive power output to size a capacitor bank. The tool shows the kVAR that must be counteracted.

Does it support three-phase systems?

Yes—enter line-to-line voltage and line current. Apparent power reflects √3 × V × I automatically when you enable three-phase mode.

Next steps