How this calculator works
A rectangular pulse is on for a fraction of each repeating period. The same fraction connects peak and average power if power is constant during the pulse and zero while off. Rise time, shaped pulses and a non-zero off-state load require integration rather than this rectangular approximation.
Formula
D = pulse width / period = average power / peak power; pulse width = D x period; pulse energy = peak power x pulse width.
Worked example
A 2-second pulse every 10 seconds has duty factor 0.2, or 20%. A 100 W pulse with that duty cycle averages 20 W.
Frequently asked questions
Is 20% the same as 0.2?
Yes. The percent input and ratio unit selector represent the same fraction.
Can duty cycle exceed 100%?
No. A pulse cannot last longer than its period under this model.
Does power scale with duty cycle for every load?
Only when on-state power is constant and off-state power is zero. Inductive and switching loads need their actual waveforms.