Calculate the right wire gauge for your amplifier based on current draw, cable length, and acceptable voltage drop. Undersized wires cause power loss, voltage sag, and can be a fire hazard.
Oxygen-Free Copper - Best conductivity, more expensive
Typical: 12.6V (engine off), 13.8-14.4V (engine running)
Battery to amp (not round-trip - calculator handles that)
Multiple parallel runs share current, allowing smaller gauge per run
Oxygen-Free Copper
| Gauge | OFC Max Amps* | CCA Max Amps* | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4/0 (0000) | 400A | 250A | Extreme competition |
| 3/0 (000) | 350A | 220A | High-power competition |
| 2/0 (00) | 300A | 190A | Multiple high-power amps |
| 1/0 (0) | 250A | 160A | 2000-4000W systems |
| 1 AWG | 200A | 125A | 1500-2500W systems |
| 2 AWG | 175A | 110A | 1000-2000W systems |
| 4 AWG | 125A | 80A | 500-1000W systems |
| 8 AWG | 65A | 40A | 200-500W systems |
*Approximate values for 15 ft runs with 3% voltage drop. Actual requirements vary by length and acceptable voltage drop.