How do you determine AWG wire size?

AWG: In the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system, wire size diameters can be calculated by applying the formula D(AWG)=. 005·92((36-AWG)/39) inch. For the 00, 000, 0000 etc.

What size of wire do I need for a 200 amp service?

For a 200 amp service, you will need to use a #4 AWG wire for copper conductors, or a #2 AWG for Aluminum or Copper-Clad Aluminum.

What does AWG mean on wire?

AWG or American Wire Gauge is the US standard measure for the diameter of electrical conductors.

What's the difference between 1 AWG and 1/0 AWG?

But looking at the title of this thread, are you referring the difference between #1 AWG and 1/O AWG? There is a difference, 1/O is one wire size larger.

Wire AWG Size Conversion Calculator

This tool calculates nominal equivalent wire size values across multiple standards, including American Wire Gauge (AWG), square millimeter area (mm²), circular mil area (CMA), and more. Simply enter a known wire size or value, and all corresponding equivalent measurements will be calculated and displayed automatically.

Introduction

AWG to Metric Conversion Guide: Wire Sizes Explained

Navigating between American Wire Gauge (AWG) and metric measurements ( $mm$ or $mm^2$ ) can be challenging. While AWG is the standard in North America, the UK and the rest of the world typically use the metric system.

Whether you are an American customer faced with metric options, or a UK customer trying to match a specific AWG requirement, this guide bridges the gap.

Quick Conversion Table: AWG to Metric

Use this table to find the closest standard metric cable size for your AWG requirement. Note that AWG does not convert perfectly to metric round numbers; we have recommended the closest suitable "Available Cable Size" for purchase.

AWG #	Diameter (mm)	Area (mm²)	Recommended Metric Size
4/0 (0000)	11.68	107.22	120 $mm^2$
3/0 (000)	10.40	85.03	95 $mm^2$
2/0 (00)	9.27	67.43	70

⚠️ Safety Note: For mains voltage applications (110v, 230v, etc.), we suggest a minimum conductor size of 0.5mm² (AWG 23 and up). Smaller cables (AWG 24-40) are generally reserved for low-voltage applications such as audio, video, telephone, and data signal cabling.

Understanding the AWG Standard

The American Wire Gauge (AWG) system was developed by the Brown & Sharpe Company—a leading manufacturer of machinist technology—and was formally adopted as an industry standard in 1857.

Unlike metric sizing, where the number represents the actual size (width or area), AWG is a "retrograde" system: the higher the number, the thinner the wire.