Copper vs CCA Comparison Tool

Compare Copper and Copper-Clad Aluminum (CCA) wires for resistance, voltage drop, efficiency, and cost to select the optimal wire for audio or power applications.

Wire Comparison Results

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Formulas & Notes
  • Wire Resistance (Ω): R = ρ × L / A, where ρ = resistivity, L = length, A = cross-sectional area.
  • Voltage Drop (V): V = I × R, I = current load.
  • Cross-sectional area (A) can be derived from AWG tables: e.g., 12 AWG ≈ 3.31 mm².
  • Compare cost and efficiency for optimal wire selection.

How to Use

  • Enter the wire gauge (AWG) for the cable.
  • Input wire length and expected current load.
  • Provide cost per meter for Copper and CCA wires.
  • View calculated resistance, voltage drop, and total cost for both options.

Who Can Use

  • Home audio enthusiasts
  • DIY speaker system builders
  • Electrical engineers evaluating wire performance
  • Live sound and PA system designers

Where to Use

  • Home theater and stereo setups
  • PA systems and stage wiring
  • Car audio installations
  • Professional recording or mixing environments

FAQs

CCA (Copper-Clad Aluminum) is aluminum wire coated with a thin layer of copper to reduce cost and weight while retaining some conductivity advantages of copper.

Copper offers lower resistance, better conductivity, and durability. CCA can be sufficient for short runs or low-current applications but has higher voltage drop and lower efficiency.

Use the formula R = ρ × L / A, where ρ = resistivity of material, L = wire length, and A = cross-sectional area based on AWG.

Yes, this tool helps compare Copper and CCA for speaker wiring based on resistance, voltage drop, and cost to select the best option for audio performance.

Excessive voltage drop reduces efficiency, audio performance, and can overload amplifiers. Choosing correct wire type and gauge minimizes losses.
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