Work out the current per phase and the generator size for your rig from the total load, single or three phase. Updates live as you type.
Current per phase and the generator you need.
Single: I = W ÷ (230 × PF). 3-phase: I per leg = W ÷ (√3 × 400 × PF). Genset kVA ≈ (W ÷ PF ÷ 1000) × surge. Balance loads across legs.
Work out the current per phase and the generator size for your rig from the total load, single or three phase. Updates live as you type.
Take the total continuous load in watts, divide by the power factor to get kVA, then multiply by a surge or headroom factor (around 1.25) so motor and amplifier inrush does not stall the set. Never load a generator to 100 percent; leaving headroom keeps the voltage and frequency stable.
For a single-phase 230 V supply, current equals watts divided by (230 times the power factor). For a three-phase 400 V supply, current per leg equals watts divided by (root-three times 400 times the power factor). Spreading load evenly across the three legs keeps each leg within its breaker.
Power factor is the ratio of real power (watts) to apparent power (VA). Switch-mode gear like LED and audio amps often runs around 0.9. A lower power factor means more current and a bigger generator for the same watts, so it directly affects the size you need.
Enchant Entertainment hires and operates PA, lighting and staging for events across Perth and regional WA. Use the calculators for free, and when you need the gear and a crew on the night, we are ready.
Enchant Entertainment · Kwinana-based · Est. 2018 · $10M public liability, fully insured · ABN 55 936 767 411Planning aid from Enchant Entertainment · Get a quote · More tools