Electrical Basics - Ohm’s Law: A Key to Understanding Circuits

The Foundation of Electricity

Like most things in life, even something as complicated as electricity has simple terminology and parts that it can be broken down into. Understanding these properties and how they are related will give you a deeper understanding of what is going on in a circuit. Ohm's law is the most basic of formulas and can be applied to both simple and complex circuits. It works with AC and DC voltages and with a little algebra it easily demonstrates the relationship between the different properties of electricity.

Never Switch a Neutral

What do you mean by switch?

I am referring to using the neutral as the breakpoint in a switching circuit. A light is the simplest example. When you flip the switch, your light turns on. Normally this is done by having the switch between the hot wire and the light fixture. This is also the safe and proper way. The problem is, that electricity does not care about you, your codes, your safety, or the proper way to do things. It follows the laws of nature, not the laws of man. That being said, it is physically possible to switch a neutral and achieve the same effect, turning a light on and off.

Bare Bones Basic Digital Logic

Introduction

Digital logic is the way computers process inputs from a binary system. Binary simply means there are two possible values. The values are determined by the presence of either high voltage or low voltage. In most logic and control circuitry, high voltage can be 3.3V, 5V, 12V, or 24V being common as the high value. Low voltage is 0V to usually but not always less than 2V. The value range is dependent on the part. 

When a Multimeter Falls Short: Why You Need a Megohmmeter

When it comes to motor troubleshooting your meter likely isn't enough to figure out the issue completely. The usual testing of lead to lead to check resistance and lead to ground to see if there is a short can definitely find some, but not all motor motor-related issues. The problem is the signal that a standard meter sends down the line and between the windings is often too weak to simulate what would normally be happening during operation.

The Hidden Benefits of Labeling Energy Sources You Might Miss

Why Label?

Often you'll find yourself in a situation where there is a leak, a fire, or a tripped circuit. In these situations where time is of the essence to ensure the safety of both personnel and equipment, knowing where the disconnecting means for these energy sources is critical. Having a clearly labeled tag will help minimize the time it takes to return to normal safe operation.

Electrical Tape Tricks

Now that you've learned the importance of having more colors of tape than you thought necessary, it's time to learn some a few like tricks.

The Hidden Benefits of Colored Electrical Tape You Didn't Know About

Colored Tape is Your Friend

We all have a need for electrical tape. You likely have a roll in your bag, pouch, box or with a majority of your tools back in the shop. But what color is it? Most will answer black unless, of course, they have been an electrician. Some people may have never seen the variety of colors, or may even question the usefulness of such colors.

Keep Your Light Bulbs Working: Greasing Tips

Introduction

We've all been in that situation. A dead light bulb. Easy enough to fix, right? You start spinning and SNAP! It breaks inside of the screw shell. Fortunately, there is a way to minimize the chance of this happening. Light bulb grease.

GFIC Nuisance Tripping

What is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter?

GFCI for short, some refer to as GFI. It's that special plug you find in your bathroom, kitchen, garage and anywhere else that is considered a wet location. Contrary to what some may think, they do not protect your electrical equipment, fuses and circuit breakers do. GFCIs are there to protect personnel. The circuitry inside compares the current coming from the ungrounded conductor to the grounding conductor. If the current is off by a few milliamps, it trips. This is normal if there is a ground fault so that you don't get shocked, or electrocuted. Think of it as a safety measure against a toaster in the bathtub, if you're ever trapped in an 80s horror movie.