What Is a Volt Ampere?
A volt ampere is a term for the measurement of power in an AC circuit, where the voltage is constantly cycling between plus and minus. It’s the voltage of the power supply multiplied by its current.CurrentThe current in the generator, transformer, electrical circuit or uninterruptable power supply is the important factor, because it’s the current that can overheat the power supply.True WattThe watt is a term for the instantaneous voltage times the instantaneous current. This does not have to be the same as a volt ampere because the volt ampere can’t take into account instantaneous changes in the current.Motor PhaseThe true wattage of a motor is less than its volt amperes because its current is out of phase with, or isn’t timed with, its voltage.Electronic DevicesComputers, TVs, fax machines and fluorescent lights all use current during only part of the AC voltage cycle. Their true wattage is less than their volt amperes.SignificanceThe current used by motors or electronic devices isn’t
