Milliamperes (mA) is a unit of electric current equal to one-thousandth of an ampere (A). It is commonly used to measure small currents in electronic devices, such as batteries and circuits. For example, a typical smartphone charger may output around 1,000 mA, which is equivalent to 1 ampere. In practical terms, milliamperes help determine how much electrical current flows through a device. Understanding this measurement is essential for ensuring that components, like resistors and capacitors, can handle the current without overheating or failing. Proper current management is crucial for the safety and efficiency of electronic systems.