This article will show how to convert electrical resistance measurement units from microohms (µΩ) to ohms (Ω). We will cover essential definitions, provide examples, share relevant formulas, and present tables, along with answers to common questions.
Definitions of Ohm and Microohm
Let’s get started by understanding the key definitions of Ohm (Ω) and Microohm (µΩ). Understanding these terms will enable you to perform conversions with confidence.
What is Ohm?
The ohm (Ω) is the SI derived unit of electrical resistance. It is defined as the resistance between two points of a conductor when a constant potential difference of one volt is applied across those points, producing a current of one ampere in the conductor, assuming no additional electromotive force is present.[1]
According to SI prefixes[2], which are based on powers of 10, an ohm (1 Ω) is equivalent to one million microohms (106 µΩ or 1,000,000 µΩ).
What is Microohm?
A microohm (µΩ) is a unit of electrical resistance in the SI system equal to one millionth (1/1,000,000) of an ohm (10-6 Ω).
It is vital for detecting hidden flaws in high-stakes systems like EV batteries, power grids, and industrial motors. Even a fraction of extra resistance here can cause overheating, energy waste, or catastrophic failures.
µΩ to Ω formula
Let’s take a closer look at the conversion formula so you can carry out these conversions independently, whether using a calculator or doing it manually with pencil and paper.
The micro- prefix in the International System of Units (SI) corresponds to a multiplier of 10-6 (0.000001).
To convert microohms (µΩ) to ohms (Ω), divide the resistance value in microohms by 106 (1,000,000), since 1 ohm equals 1,000,000 microohms.
R(Ω) = R(µΩ) ÷ 106 = R(µΩ) ÷ 1,000,000
Or remember the µΩ-to-Ω conversion factor: 1 µΩ = 10-6 = 0.000001 Ω
µΩ to Ω conversion table
The conversion table below provides a handy reference for converting electrical resistance measurement units from micro-ohms (µΩ) to ohms (Ω). It covers a range from 0.1 µΩ to 1,000 µΩ, allowing for easy and quick conversions between these units of measurement.
| Microohms (µΩ) | Ohms (Ω) |
|---|---|
| 0.1 µΩ | 0.0000001 Ω |
| 0.5 µΩ | 0.0000005 Ω |
| 1 µΩ | 0.000001 Ω |
| 2 µΩ | 0.000002 Ω |
| 4 µΩ | 0.000004 Ω |
| 5 µΩ | 0.000005 Ω |
| 10 µΩ | 0.00001 Ω |
| 20 µΩ | 0.00002 Ω |
| 30 µΩ | 0.00003 Ω |
| 40 µΩ | 0.00004 Ω |
| 50 µΩ | 0.00005 Ω |
| 60 µΩ | 0.00006 Ω |
| 70 µΩ | 0.00007 Ω |
| 80 µΩ | 0.00008 Ω |
| 90 µΩ | 0.00009 Ω |
| 100 µΩ | 0.0001 Ω |
| 200 µΩ | 0.0002 Ω |
| 500 µΩ | 0.0005 Ω |
| 800 µΩ | 0.0008 Ω |
| 1,000 µΩ | 0.001 Ω |
Examples
Now, let's look at an example that illustrates the calculations required to convert from microohms to ohms (µΩ to Ω).
Example: PCB Trace Measurement for High-Speed Circuits
In high-speed printed circuit boards, even minute resistive losses can affect signal integrity. Engineers use specialized instruments to measure the resistance of the copper traces. When the reading is expressed in microohms (to capture the very small resistance values), it is converted to ohms to align with simulation models and standard design documentation.
If a PCB trace is measured at 500,000 µΩ, what is its resistance in ohms?
Solution
Since 1 ohm (Ω) = 106 = 1,000,000 microohms (µΩ), we can convert 500,000 µΩ to ohms by using the following formula:
Therefore, the 500,000 µΩ electrical resistance is equivalent to 0.5 Ω.
To solve the problem with our calculator, follow the steps below:
- Enter the value in microohms: For this example, enter
500,000into the From box. - View the result: The converter instantly calculates and displays the equivalent value in ohms:
0.5 Ω.
FAQs
Is 1 microohm or 1 ohm larger?
An ohm (Ω) is a million times bigger than a microohm (µΩ). Here are the relationships between the units:
1 Ω = 106 = 1,000,000 µΩ1 µΩ = 10-6 = 1 ÷ 1,000,000 = 0.000001 Ω
How to convert from microohms to ohms?
To convert electrical resistance from microohms (µΩ) to ohms (Ω), follow these simple steps:
- Step 1: Write down the electrical resistance value in microohms (µΩ).
- Step 2: Divide it by a million (
1,000,000). - Step 3: The result is the value of the electrical resistance in ohms (Ω).
Why do I need to convert microohms to ohms?
Converting microohms to ohms is beneficial because microohms are very small numbers that can be difficult to work with in calculations and comparisons. Dividing by 1,000,000 standardizes the measurement, making it more practical for use in design models, simulations, and engineering documentation while reducing the risk of errors when handling very small decimal values.
You now know how to convert electrical resistance from microohms (µΩ) to ohms (Ω). You can quickly use our calculator to convert between electric resistance measurement units, saving time for future calculations.
