What is the difference between relay and circuit breaker ?

A relay and a circuit breaker serve distinct purposes in electrical and electronic systems. A relay is an electrically operated switch that uses an electromagnet to mechanically operate its contacts. It is used to control circuits electronically, typically switching high-power loads with a low-power control signal. Relays are commonly used in automation, control systems, and … Read more

Why is the capacitor of an AC unit so breakage prone ?

Capacitors in AC units can be prone to breakage due to several reasons, primarily related to electrical stress and environmental factors. One common cause is overvoltage or voltage spikes within the electrical system. AC capacitors are designed to operate within specific voltage ratings, and if the voltage exceeds these limits due to electrical surges or … Read more

Why inductor cannot be fabricated on IC ?

Inductors are challenging to fabricate directly on integrated circuits (ICs) primarily due to their physical size and complexity. Unlike resistors and capacitors, which can be miniaturized using semiconductor processes, inductors require a substantial amount of space and typically involve wire windings around a core. This makes it impractical to integrate them into the compact and … Read more

What is the four bridge rectifier that has a dominant advantage ?

A four-bridge rectifier, also known as a full-wave bridge rectifier, offers several dominant advantages over other rectifier configurations. One major advantage is its ability to provide full-wave rectification using four diodes arranged in a bridge configuration. This arrangement allows the rectifier to convert both halves of the AC input waveform into a pulsating DC output, … Read more

Why a capacitor of higher value is preferable ?

A capacitor of higher value is often preferable in certain applications because it can store more electrical charge and therefore provide larger energy reserves. This is advantageous in circuits where a smoother voltage supply or longer discharge times are required. For instance, in power supply filtering circuits, larger capacitors can better smooth out fluctuations in … Read more

What is the importance of transformer oil ?

Transformer oil plays a crucial role in the efficient and safe operation of power transformers. One of its primary functions is to act as an insulating medium between the windings and core of the transformer. This insulating property prevents electrical breakdown and ensures that the transformer can withstand high voltages without short-circuiting. Transformer oil also … Read more

What do the farads on a capacitor stand for ?

The farads (symbolized as F) on a capacitor indicate its capacitance, which is a measure of the amount of electrical charge the capacitor can store per unit of voltage applied across it. One farad is a relatively large unit of capacitance, equal to one coulomb of charge stored per volt of potential difference between the … Read more

How do we select the fuse for a surge arrestor ?

Selecting the right fuse for a surge arrester involves considering several factors to ensure proper protection and reliability. First, you need to check the surge arrester’s specifications provided by the manufacturer. This includes the maximum continuous operating voltage (MCOV) and the maximum discharge current (Imax) ratings. The fuse should have a voltage rating equal to … Read more

Why do capacitors generally have two plates ?

Capacitors generally have two plates because they operate based on the principle of storing electric charge between two conductive surfaces separated by a dielectric material. This configuration allows for the formation of an electric field between the plates when a voltage is applied across them. The plates are typically made of conductive materials such as … Read more

Where are the circuit breakers used ?

Circuit breakers are used in various electrical systems and installations to protect against overcurrent conditions that could potentially cause damage to equipment, fires, or electrical hazards. They are essential components in both residential and industrial settings where electrical circuits need to be safely managed and controlled. In residential applications, circuit breakers are typically installed in … Read more