Magnetic inductance*

Magnetic inductance is a property of a conductor or a system of conductors that describes how magnetic flux linkage is related to electric current in the system. More formally, inductance is defined as the ratio of magnetic flux linkage to current.

Magnetic inductance depends on conductor geometry, spacing between conductors, and magnetic permeability of surrounding materials and magnetic cores. When calculating inductance of practical conductor systems, analytical formulas are often insufficient because real devices often include complex winding arrangements and nonlinear magnetic materials.

Inductance calculation is required when analysing coils, transformers, inductors, electromagnetic actuators, and PCB conductor loops. In QuickField, inductance is usually calculated using the DC or AC Magnetics package.

References
Wikipedia: Inductance

QuickField examples
Flat spiral coil inductance,
Brooks coil,
Inductive touch button

^*We do not guarantee that articles in the section "Glossary" are full and exact or that they may be used as a reference of any kind. In fact - they are not! These are just informal hints, letting the students and amateurs better understand what the specific term is about. Experts should not read it at all! However, we will appreciate all expert recommendations about improving and extending our glossary.