Uploaded October 2021 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Mesh current analysis results in a set of linear equations for the kirchoff's voltage law loops that you define. Solving these systems of equations can be time consuming if done by hand. Fortunately, there are many software tools that enable you to solve the equations quickly and easily. This video starts with the linear equations determined in this video: youtu.be/O_XweaUPDDM and shows how to determine the unknown current values using three different software tools:
02:38 - Matlab (which has the most matrix manipulation features but is the most expensive)
04:14 - Microsoft Excel (readily available to many)
06:42 - An online Matrix Calculator (free and easy to use as long as you have a mobile device and an internet connection)
The solution to the linear equations yields the current in each of the loops and using the current values, the voltages across and current through all of the resistors in the circuit can be determined.
This example problem and circuit come from Lessons in Electric Circuits, Volume 1, by Tony Kuphaldt. It is reused under the conditions of the Design Science License (gnu.org/licenses/dsl.html). These terms and conditions allow for free copying, distribution, and/or modification of this document by the general public. As part of this license, this video uses the same license.
Mesh current analysis results in a set of linear equations for the kirchoff's voltage law loops that you define. Solving these systems of equations can be time consuming if done by hand. Fortunately, there are many software tools that enable you to solve the equations quickly and easily. This video starts with the linear equations determined in this video: youtu.be/O_XweaUPDDM and shows how to determine the unknown current values using three different software tools:
02:38 - Matlab (which has the most matrix manipulation features but is the most expensive)
04:14 - Microsoft Excel (readily available to many)
06:42 - An online Matrix Calculator (free and easy to use as long as you have a mobile device and an internet connection)
The solution to the linear equations yields the current in each of the loops and using the current values, the voltages across and current through all of the resistors in the circuit can be determined.
This example problem and circuit come from Lessons in Electric Circuits, Volume 1, by Tony Kuphaldt. It is reused under the conditions of the Design Science License (gnu.org/licenses/dsl.html). These terms and conditions allow for free copying, distribution, and/or modification of this document by the general public. As part of this license, this video uses the same license.
