Can someone please tell me how to correctly determine proper conductor size for HVAC equipment if you know the total running amps.

I need to know how to do this without any help from equipment nameplate info.

Example....Total running amps of condensing unit 16 amps. What size wire is required, and how did you determine?


Also a question about voltage drop....
A unit with a voltage rating of 208/230v...does this mean this unit can operate within a voltage range of 208-230v?
And if so.....
Is there an allowable voltage drop of +/- 10%
on motors?
Does this mean that a unit with a voltage of 187.2 - 253v (+/- 10%)????

Thanks for any help.....