BASIC ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING

Danielle Joy L. Alcantara

 VISION
Laguna University shall be a socially responsive educational
institution of choice providing holistically developed
individuals in the Asia-Pacific Region.

MISSION
Laguna University is committed to produce academically
prepared and technically skilled individuals who are socially
and morally upright citizens.

Department of Mechanical Engineering

MISSION
The Department of Mechanical Engineering of Laguna
University is committed to produce academically prepared
and technically skilled mechanical engineers who are socially
and morally upright citizens.
VISION
The Department of Mechanical Engineering of Laguna
University is envisioned to be the provincial college of choice
producing well-equipped mechanical engineers who
specializes on energy management.
 Table of Contents

Module 1: Introduction to Basic Electrical Engineering

Introduction 1
Learning Objectives 1
Lesson 1.Electrical Engineering 2
Lesson 2.Electric Circuit and Electric Circuit Variables 3
Lesson 3.Electric Circuit Elements 8
Lesson 4. Electric Circuit Symbols 11
Assessment Task 1 19
Summary 21
References 21

Module 2: Resistors
Introduction 22
Learning Objectives 22
Lesson 1.Resistors 23
Lesson 2.Resistor Color Coding 24
Assessment Task 2 26
Summary 28
References 28

Module 3: Ohms Law

Introduction 29
Learning Objectives 29
Lesson 1.Ohms Law 30
Lesson 2.Ohms law Triangle 31
Assessment Task 3 34
Summary 34
References 35

Module 4: Power and Energy

Introduction 36
Learning Objectives 36
Lesson 1.Ohms Law 37
Lesson 2.Ohms law Triangle 38
Assessment Task 4 40
Summary 40
References 41
Course Code: ENG’G 201

Course Description: This course covers the fundamentals of both DC and

AC circuits intended for non EE major students. It covers the principles, basic
laws and theorems used in analyzing electrical circuits in both direct current
and alternating current conditions.
Course Intended Learning Outcomes (CILO):

At the end of the course, students should be able to:

1. Gain knowledge about the characteristics, uses and application of
circuit elements/devices and their parameters.
2. Apply the fundamental circuit laws, theorems and techniques used in
DC and AC circuit analysis.
3. Determine experimentally the laws and theorems used in circuit
analysis.
4. Use the voltmeter, ammeter and ohmmeter.
5. Familiarize themselves with the basic circuit elements such as voltage
source and resistors.

Course Requirements:
Assessment Tasks - 60%
Major Exams -40%
_________
Periodic Grade 100%

Computation of Grades:

PRELIM GRADE = 60% (Activity 1-4)+ 40% (Prelim exam)

MIDTERM GRADE = 30%(Prelim Grade) + 70 %[60% (Activity 5-7) + 40% (Midterm exam)]

FINAL GRADE = 30%(Midterm Grade) + 70 %[60% (Activity 8-10) + 40% (Final exam)]
 MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION TO BASIC ELECTRICAL
ENGINEERING

Introduction

Electrical Engineering affects our daily lives closely and is responsible for various
technological innovations that we enjoy today. Electrical engineering is at its heart, involving
the research and design of devices and machinery using electricity, electromagnetism and
electronics.It took a group of electrical engineers to make that happen if you go to turn a light
switch in your house or even test the time on your mobile. The simple stuff we take for granted,
like being able to turn on a light when its darkness is actually the product of diligent engineers
doing hundreds of years’ worth of work (Electrical Engineering, n.d)

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, students should be able to:

1. Have background in Basic Electrical Engineering

2. Learn about Electric Circuit Elements and Variables

1
Lesson 1. Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering is the engineering branch that deals with the electricity
technology. Electrical engineers are working on a broad variety of parts, machines, and
systems, from tiny microchips to massive generators of power stations (Lucas, 2014).

Importance of Electrical Engineering

Engineers need to design and construct electrical networks to ensure a reliable

transmission through the entire network. Engineers also connect to the production system
with power from the transmission grid, to the power plant and other power utilities
(Importance of Electrical Engineering, n.d ).

Derived S.I Units

Table 1.1 Units in Basic Electrical Engineering

QUANTITY UNIT NAME FORMULA

Frequency Hertz (H) 𝑠 −1

Force Newton (N) Kg . m/𝑠 2

Energy of Work Joule (J) N.m
Power Watt (W) J/s
Electric Change Coulomb ( C ) A.s
Electric Potential Volt ( V ) J/C
Electric Resistance Ohm V/A
Electric Conductance Siemens (S) A/V
Electric Capacitance Farad (F) C/V
Magnetic Flux Weber (Wb) V.s
Inductance Henry (H) Wb/A
Electric Current Amperes C/s

2
Lesson 2. Electric Circuit Variables

Electricity

Electricity is a natural phenomenon that occurs throughout nature and takes many
different forms. In this tutorial we'll focus on current electricity: the stuff that powers our
electronic gadgets. Our goal is to understand how electricity flows from a power source
through wires, lighting up LEDs, spinning motors, and powering our communication devices.
Electricity is briefly defined as the flow of electric charge (Jimblom, 2009).

Electric circuit

Electric circuit is path for transmitting electric current. An electric circuit includes a
device that gives energy to the charged particles constituting the current, such as a battery or
a generator; devices that use current, such as lamps, electric motors, or computers; and the
connecting wires or transmission lines (Gregersen, 2018).

Charge (Q)

Charge is an electrical property of the atomic particles of which matter consists,

measured in coulombs (C). Electric charge is mobile; it can be transferred from one place to
another, where it can be converted to another form of energy (Badruduza, 2017).

 The charge e on an electron is negative and equal in magnitude to 1.6 ×

10−19C, while a proton carries a positive charge of the same magnitude as the
electron.

 The presence of equal numbers of protons and electrons leaves an atom

neutrally charged. The only charges that occur in nature are integral multiples
of the electronic charge, e = 1.6 × 10−19C

 The law of conservation of charge states that charge can neither be created
nor destroyed only transferred. Thus the algebraic sum of the electric charges
in a system does not change.

 A like charge repeal and opposite charges attract each other.

3
Current (I)

Electric current is the time rate of change of charge, measured in amperes (A) (Badruduza,
2017).

 The relationship between current I, charge q, and time t is given by

𝑑𝑞
I= , I = A (Amperes) = 1 Coulomb (C) / seconds (s)
𝑑𝑡

 The direction of current flow is conventionally taken as the direction of positive

charge movement.

Direct current (dc) is a current that remains constant with time. By convention the symbol I is
used to represent dc current. The capital letter I was chosen from the French word for current,
intensite (Badruduza, 2017).

Figure 1.1 Direct Current

Alternating current (ac) is a current that varies sinusoidal with time. By convention the symbol
I is used to represent ac current (Badruduza, 2017).

Figure 1.2 Alternating Current

4
Voltage (V)

According to Badruduza (2017), voltage (or potential difference) is the energy required
to move a unit charge through an element, measured in volts (V). The voltage between two
points a and b in an electric circuit is given by:

V= Energy/Charge

1volt = 1joule/coulomb

A constant voltage is called a dc voltage and is represented by V, whereas a sinusoidal

time-varying voltage is called an ac voltage and is represented by v. A dc voltage is commonly
produced by a battery and ac voltage is produced by an electric generator (Badruduza, 2017).

Power (P)

Power is the time rate of expanding or absorbing energy, measured in watts (W)
(Badruduza, 2017).

Mathematically,
𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒
P= 𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒
= 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑔𝑒 x 𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒
= Voltage (Current)

Energy (W)

Energy is the capacity to do work, measured in joules (J) (Badruduza, 2017).

Electric energy is measured in watt-hours (Wh), where 1Wh = 3600J

Resistors

The circuit element used to impede the flow of current or, more specifically, the flow of
electric charge is called resistor (Badruduza, 2017).

5
 Figure 1.3 Symbol For Resistor

Resistance (R)

The capacity of resistor to impede the flow of current or, more specifically, the flow of
electric charge is called resistance, expressed by R and measured in ohms (Ω) (Badruduza,
2017).

Figure 1.4 Resistance

Types of Resistors

1. Fixed: their resistance is constant.

2. Variable: their resistance is adjustable. Such as, potentiometer or pot.

Figure 1.5 Symbol for Variable Resistor

6
Inductors

Inductor is a passive element designed to store energy in its magnetic field. It consists
of a coil of conducting wire. Inductors may be fixed or variable. The core may be made of iron,
steel, plastic, or air (Badruduza, 2017).

Application

 1 Electronics and power system

 2 Power supplies, transformers, radios, TVs, radars and electric motors.

Figure 1.6 Inductors Configurations

Types and Configurations

Inductors are of two types: fixed and variable.

An inductor may have different configurations such as solenoidal, toroidal etc.

Inductance (H)

Inductance is the property whereby an inductor exhibits opposition to the change of

current flowing through it, measured in henrys (H). The inductance of a coil varies directly with
the magnetic properties of the coil. Ferromagnetic materials, therefore, are frequently
employed to increase the inductance by increasing the flux linking the coil (Badruduza, 2017).

Conductors (G)

7
According to Badruduza (2017) conductance is the reciprocal of the resistance, symbolized
by letter G and measured in Siemens(S). G = 1/R

Lesson 3. Electric Circuit Elements

There are two types of circuit elements:

Active circuit elements
Passive circuit elements

Active circuit elements

Active circuit elements are capable of generating energy such as, generators,
batteries, operational amplifiers etc. Most important active elements are voltage and current
sources which deliver power to the circuit connected to them (Badruduza, 2017).

Passive circuit elements

Passive circuit elements are not capable of generating energy such as, resistors,
capacitors, inductors etc. (Badruduza, 2017).

There are two kinds of sources.

Independent sources
Dependent source

Source

Independent Source

An ideal independent source is an active element that provides a specified voltage ar current
that is completely independent of other circuit elements (Badruduza, 2017).

 Independent voltage source

8
 An ideal independent voltage source delivers to the circuit whatever current is
necessary to maintain its terminal voltage.

Example: Generators and batteries.

 Independent current source

An ideal independent current source delivers to the circuit whatever voltage is
necessary to maintain the designated current.

Figure 1.7 Independent Source

Dependent Source

An ideal dependent source is an active element in which the source quantity is

controlled by another voltage or current (Badruduza, 2017).

Dependent sources are of four kinds:

 Voltage-controlled voltage source (VCVS)

 Current-controlled voltage source (CCVS)
 Voltage-controlled current source (VCCS)
 4Current-controlled current source (CCCS)

Application

9
 Dependent sources are used for modeling elements such as transistors, operational
amplifiers and integrated circuits (Badruduza, 2017).

Ideal voltage controlled voltage source

The equation for the supplied voltage vs is given by vs = µvx , where vx is the
controlling voltage and µ is a multiplying constant that is dimensionless (Badruduza, 2017).

Ideal current controlled voltage source

The equation for the supplied voltage vs is given by vs = ρix , where ix is the controlling
current and the multiplying constant, ρ has the dimension volts per ampere (Badruduza,
2017).

Ideal voltage controlled current source

The equation for the supplied current is is given by is = αvx , where vx is the controlling
voltage and the multiplying constant α has a dimension of ampere per volt (Badruduza, 2017).

Ideal current controlled current source

The equation for the supplied current is is given by is = βix , where ix is the controlling
current and the multiplying constant, β is dimensionless (Badruduza, 2017).

10
 Figure 1.8 Ideal Dependent Source

Lesson 4. Electric Circuit Symbols

Circuit symbols are used in circuit diagrams which show how a circuit is connected
together. The actual layout of the components is usually quite different from the circuit
diagram. To build a circuit you need a different diagram showing the layout of the parts on
strip board or printed circuit board (Hewes, 2011).

According to Hewes (2011) here are the tables for different electric circuit components, its
symbols and functions:

Table 1.2 Wires And Connections, Symbols And Functions.

Wires and Connections

Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
To transmit current from one part of the circuit
Wire
very easily to another
A 'blob' where wires are attached (joined) should
Wires be drawn but often it is omitted. Connected wires
Joined at 'crossroads' should be slightly staggered to
form two T junctions, as shown on the right
Sometimes it is important to draw wires crossing
Wires not in complex diagrams even though they are not
joined related.

Table 1.3 Power Supplies Symbols and Function

11
Table 1.4 Output Devices, Symbol and Functions

Power Supplies
Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
Electric power supplies. The large (to the left)
terminal is positive (+). A single cell is also called
Cell
a battery, but a battery is specifically connected
together by two or more cells
Electric power supplies. A battery is more than
Battery
just a single cell.
Electric power supplies. DC Direct Current
DC Supply
always flowing one way
Electric power supplies. AC Alternating Current,
AC Supply
Changing direction continuously.
A safety device which blows (melt) when the
Fuse
current exceeds the value stated.
Two wire coils which are connected by an iron
core. To step up (increase) and step down
(decrease) AC voltages, transformers are used.
Transformer
In the center, energy is transferred by the
magnetic field between the coils. The coils are
not electrically related.
An Earth Connection. For certain electrical
devices that is the 0V (zero volts) of the power
Ground supply, but it just means the Earth for mains
electricity and some radio circuitry. It is also
called ground.
Output Devices : Lamps, Heater, Motor, etc.

12
 Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
A transducer that converts light to electrical energy.
Lamp
This symbol is used for a lamp, such as a car
(lighting)
headlamp or torch bulb, that provides illumination.
A transducer that converts light to electrical energy.
Lamp
This symbol is used for an indicator lamp, for
( indicator)
instance a warning light on a car dashboard
Heater A transducer that converts heat to electric energy.
A transducer that converts electrical energy
Motor
(motion) into kinetic energy

A transducer that converts sound into electrical

Bell energy.

A transducer that transforms sound to electrical

Buzzer energy.

A coil of wire that generates a magnetic field as

current traverses it. It may contain a core of iron
Inductor inside the coil. It can be used as a transducer by
pulling on it to transform electrical energy to
mechanical energy.

Table 1.5 Switches, Symbol and Functions

Switches
Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
A push switch allows for current to flow only
Push Switch while pushing the button. This is the
mechanism used for doorbell service
Normally this sort of push switch is closed
Push to
(on), open (off) only when the button is
Break
pressed

13
 On-Off SPST = Single Pole Throw. An on-off switch
Switch allows for the flow of current only when it is
(SPST) in the closed (on) position.
SPDT = Double Thrust, Single Post.
2 way Depending on its location a 2-way
Switch changeover switch guides the current flow to
(SPDT) one of two paths. Some SPDT switches are
centrally off and identified as 'on-off-on.'
DPST = Single Throw, Double Pole. A dual
Dual On –
on-off switch often used to disconnect
Off
electricity from the mains, since it can
(DPST)
separate both live and neutral connections.
DPDT = Twin Pole, Double Throw. This
Reversing switch can be wired up to a motor as a
Switch reversing switch. Some switches with DPDT
DPDT have a central off position.

For example, an electrically powered switch,

a 9V battery circuit connected to the coil, will
Relay turn over a 230V AC mains circuit. NO =
Normally Open, COM = Usual, NC = Closed
as standard.

Table 1.6 Resistors, Symbol and Functions

14
 Resistors
Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
A resistor limits current flow, such as to limit
the current that passes through an LED. In
Resistor a timing circuit a resistor is used with a
condenser. The old resistor symbol is still

used in some publications

This type of 2 contact variable resistor (a
rheostat) is generally used for controlling
current. Examples include: changing the
Variable Resistor
brightness of the light, changing the speed
(Rheostat)
of the motor and adjusting the rate of
charge flow into a condenser inside a
timing circuit.
Typically this type of 3 contact variable
resistor (a potentiometer) is used to
Variable Resistor
regulate the voltage. It can be used as a
(Potentiometer)
transducer position (control spindle angle)
converting to an electrical signal, like this.
A small screwdriver or similar tool is used
to operate this type of variable resistor (a
preset). When the circuit is made, it is
Variable Resistor
designed to be set, and then left without
(Preset)
further adjustment. Presets are cheaper
than normal variable resistors so they're
often used to reduce costs in projects.

Table 1.7 Capacitors, Symbol and Functions

15
 Capacitor
Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
Capacitor Electric charge is stored by a capacitor. In a
timing circuit a condenser is used with a resistor.
Also it can be used as a filter to block DC signals
but to transfer AC signals.
Capacitor Electric charge is stored by a capacitor. This
Polarized type has to be connected round the proper way.
In a timing circuit a condenser is used with a
resistor. Also it can be used as a filter to block
DC signals but to transfer AC signals.
Variable A variable capacitor is used in a radio tuner.
Capacitor

Trimmer This variable condenser type (a trimmer) is

Capacitor operated with a small screwdriver or similar tool.
When the circuit is made, it is designed to be set,
and then left without further adjustment.

Table 1.8 Diodes, Symbol and Functions

Diode
Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
Diode A device which only allows current to flow
in one direction.
LED(Light emitting A transducer which converts electrical
diodes ) energy to light.
Zener Diode A special diode which is used to maintain
a fixed voltage across its terminals.
Photo Diode A light-sensitive diode.

16
Table 1.9 Transistors, Symbol and Functions

Transistors
Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
Transistor A transistor amplifies current. It can be used with
NPN other components to make an amplifier or switching
circuit.
Transistor A transistor amplifies current. It can be used with
PNP other components to make an amplifier or switching
circuit.
Photo
Transistor
A light-sensitive transistor.

Table 1.10 Audio and Radio Devices, Symbol and Functions

Audio and Radio Devices

Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
Microphone A transducer which converts sound to electrical
energy.
Earphone A transducer which converts electrical energy to
sound.

Loudspeaker A transducer which converts electrical energy to

sound.

Piezo A transducer which converts electrical energy to

Transducer sound.

Amplifier An amplifier circuit with one input. Really it is a block

diagram symbol because it represents a circuit rather
than just one component.

17
 Aerial A device which is designed to receive or transmit radio
(Antenna) signals. It is also known as an antenna.

Table 1.11meters and Oscilloscope, Symbol and Functions

Meters and Oscilloscope

Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
Voltmeter A voltmeter is used to measure voltage. The proper
name for voltage is 'potential difference', but most
people prefer to say voltage
Ammeter An ammeter is used to measure current.

Galvanometer A galvanometer is a very sensitive meter which is

used to measure tiny currents, usually 1mA or less.

Ohmmeter An ohmmeter is used to measure resistance. Most

multi meters have an ohmmeter setting

Oscilloscope An oscilloscope is used to display the shape of

electrical signals and it can be used to measure their
voltage and time period.

Table 1.12 Sensors Symbols and Functions

Sensors
Component Circuit Symbol Function of Component
A transducer which converts brightness (light) to
LDR resistance (an electrical property). LDR = Light
Dependent Resistor
A transducer which converts temperature (heat)
Thermistor
to resistance (an electrical property).

18
Assessment Task 1

A. Identification: Write your answer on the blank provided, wrong spelling wrong, Strictly No Erasure.
1.__________ is path for transmitting electric current. An electric circuit includes a device that gives
energy to the charged particles constituting the current, such as a battery or a generator; devices
that use current, such as lamps, electric motors, or computers; and the connecting wires or
transmission lines.
2. __________ is a natural phenomenon that occurs throughout nature and takes many different
forms.
3.__________ the time rate of expanding or absorbing energy, measured in watts.
4.__________ is the property whereby an inductor exhibits opposition to the change of current flowing
through it, measured in henrys (H).
5.__________ the capacity of resistor to impede the flow of current or, more specifically, the flow of
electric charges is called resistance, expressed by R and measured in ohms (Ω).
6.__________ sources are used for modeling elements such as transistors, operational amplifiers
and integrated circuits.
7.__________ is the energy required to move a unit charge through an element, measured in volts
(V).
8.__________ is the capacity to do work, measured in joules (J).

9.__________ is the time rate of change of charge, measured in amperes (A).

10.__________ is an electrical property of the atomic particles of which matter consists, measured
in coulombs (C).

19
20
 B. Draw the circuit diagram for the figure below.

Summary

21
  Electrical engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the technology of
electricity. Electrical engineers work on a wide range of components, devices and
systems, from tiny microchips to huge power station generators.

 Engineers need to carry out the design and construction of electrical systems to ensure
stable transmission throughout the system. Engineers also make connections to bring
power from the transmission system to the production system, to the operation of the
power plant and other power utilities
 There are two types of circuit elements: the Active circuit elements are capable of
generating energy such as, generators, batteries, operational amplifiers etc. and
Passive circuit elements are not capable of generating energy such as, resistors,
capacitors, inductors etc.
 Important circuit variables are energy, resistance, current, voltage, conductance, and
power.
 Circuit symbols are used in circuit diagrams which show how a circuit is connected
together. The actual layout of the components is usually quite different from the circuit
diagram. To build a circuit you need a different diagram showing the layout of the parts
on strip board or printed circuit board
 The important circuit elements are,wires and connections, power supplies, Output
devices: lamps, heater, motor, etc., switches, capacitors, resistors, diodes, transistors,
audio devices, meter and oscilloscope, and sensors.

References

Badruduza A.S.M (2017) “Circuit Element and Variables” slideshare.net

https://www.slideshare.net/ASMBadrudduza/circuit-variables-and-elements-
73223510

Gibbs K. (2020, July 25) “Electrical Power” School Physics

http://www.schoolphysics.co.uk/age16-
19/Electricity%20and%20magnetism/Current%20electricity/text/Electrical_power/inde
x.html

22
Gregersen E. (2018) “Electric Circuit” Britannica.com
https://www.britannica.com/technology/electric-circuit

Hewes J. (2011) "Circuit Symbols of Electronic Components” The Electronics Club,

http://web.gps.caltech.edu/~als/IRMS/course-materials/lecture-1---electricity/circuit-
symbols.pdf

Importance of Electrical Engineering (n.d)

http://www.nzdl.org/gsdlmod?e=d-00000-00---off-0gtz--00-0----0-10-0---0---0direct-
10---4-------0-1l--11-en-50---20-about---00-0-1-00-0--4----0-0-11-10-0utfZz-8-
00&cl=CL1.3&d=HASH016d0f8759f065dba82c6bfa.3&x=1

Jimblom (2009) “ What is Electricity” Spark Fun,

https://learn.sparkfun.com/tutorials/what-is-electricity/all

Lucas (2014) “What is Electrical Engineering?”, Live Science.

https://www.livescience.com/47571-electrical-engineering.html

MODULE 2
RESISTORS

23
 Introduction

Resistors are devices that limit current flow and provide a voltage drop in electrical
circuits. Because carbon resistors are physically small, they are color-coded to identify their
resistance value in ohms. The use of color bands on the body of a resistor is the most common
system for indicating the value of a resistor. Color-coding is standardized by the Electronic
Industries Association (EIA) (Badruduza, 2017).

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, students should be able to:

1. Understand Resistors Color-Coding

2. Compute values of Resistors thru Color-Codings

Lesson 1. Resistors

24
 Resistors of all types are used in vast quantities in manufacturing electronic
equipment. In fact the resistor is probably the most common type of electronic component
used in electrical and electronic circuits. There are a large number of different types of resistor
that can be bought and used. The properties of these different resistors vary, and it helps to
obtain the right type of resistor for any given design to ensure that the best performance is
obtained. Although many resistors will work in a variety of applications the type of resistor can
be important in some cases. Accordingly it is necessary to know about the different resistor
types, and in which applications each type of resistor can be used (Electronic Notes 2020).

What is a resistor?

Resistors are used in virtually all electronic circuits and many electrical ones.
Resistors, as their name indicates resist the flow of electricity and this function is key to the
operation most circuits. There are two main circuit symbols used for resistors. The oldest one
is still widely used in North America and consists of a jagged line representing the wire used
in a resistor. The other resistor circuit symbol is a small rectangle, and this is often termed the
international resistor symbol and it is more widely used in Europe and Asia (Electronic Notes
2020).

Figure 2.1 Resistor Symbols

The unit or resistance is the Ohm, Ω and resistor values may be seen quoted in terms
of Ohms - Ω, thousands of Ohms or kilohms - kΩ and millions of Ohms, megohms, MΩ. When

25
written on circuits values like 10k may be seen meaning 10 kilohm, or 10 kΩ. The Omega sign
is often omitted and the decimal point replaced by the multipler: e.g. 1R5 would be 1.5 Ohms,
100R is 100Ω, 4k7 is 4.7 kΩ, 2M2 is 2.2MΩ and so forth.There are many different types of
resistor. Some are for special applications like being used as variable resistors and others are
used for surge limitation whilst others provide a variable resistance with temperature. All of
these characteristics can be used (Electronic Notes 2020).

Basic distinction of resistor types

According to Electronics Notes (2020) the first major categories into which the different
types of resistor can be fitted is into whether they are fixed or variable. These different resistor
types are used for different applications:

 Fixed resistors: Fixed resistors are by far the most widely used type of resistor. They
are used in electronics circuits to set the right conditions in a circuit. Their values are
determined during the design phase of the circuit, and they should never need to be
changed to "adjust" the circuit.
 Variable resistors: These resistors consist of a fixed resistor element and a slider
which taps onto the main resistor element. This gives three connections to the
component: two connected to the fixed element, and the third is the slider. In this way
the component acts as a variable potential divider if all three connections are used. It
is possible to connect to the slider and one end to provide a resistor with variable
resistance.

Lesson 2. Resistor Color-Coding

Use the Resistor Color Code Chart (below) to understand how to use the color code
system. When looking at the chart, note the illustration of three round resistors with numerous
color code bands. The first resistor in the chart (with 4 bands) tells you the minimum
information you can learn from a resistor. The next (a 5-band code) provides a little more
information about the resistor. The third resistor (a 6-band) provides even more information.
Each color band is associated with a numerical value (Resistor Color Codes, n.d).

26
 Figure 2.2 Resistor Color Coding Chart

Example:

27
Assessment Task 2

Answer the following Questions

1. What is the value of a 4 band resistor which has the first band – Green, the second
band – Blue, the third band- orange, the fourth band – Gold?
2. What is the value of a resistor which has first three color bands are Red, black, and
Orange?
3. What is the value of a six-band resistor, which has band color Green, Blue, Black,
Orange, Violet, and Brown?
4. What is the color code of 333kΩ, ± 5% five band resistors?

28
 Summary

 Resistors of all types are used in vast quantities in manufacturing electronic

equipment. In fact the resistor is probably the most common type of electronic
component used in electrical and electronic circuits
 There are two basic distinctions of Resistors, the variable resistor and fixed resistors.
 The value of resistance of a resistors can be computed by its color-code, first color for
first digit, second color for second digit, third color for third digit, fourth color for
multiplier, fifth color for tolerance, and sixth color for temperature coefficient

References

Aspencore (2020) “Resistor Color codes” Electronics tutorials

https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/resistor/res_2.html

Electronic Notes (2020) “Resistors Types, Uses and Details”

https://www.electronics-notes.com/articles/electronic_components/resistors/resistor-
types.php

Electrical Engineering (n.d), Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_engineering

Resistor Color Code (n.d)

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 https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/resistor/res_2.html

MODULE 3
OHMS LAW

Introduction

Ohm's law states that the tension or potential difference between two points is directly
proportional to the current or electricity that passes through the resistance, and directly
proportional to the circuit resistance. This is the very core of all electrical systems. This
equation is used by electrical engineers to guide design of electrical systems. For Ohm's law
the formula is V = IR.German scientist Georg Simon Ohm discovered this relation between
current, voltage and relationship. Let's learn more about Ohms Law, Resistance, and how it
applies (Ohms Law Review, 2020).

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, students should be able to:

1. Understand the relationship of voltage, resistance, and current.

2. Compute, voltage, resistance, and current through Ohm’s Law

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Lesson 1. Ohm’s Law

Ohm's Law is one of the most fundamental and important laws governing electrical
and electronic circuits. It relates current, voltage and resistance for a linear device, such that
if two are known, the third can be calculated. With current, voltage and resistance being three
of the major circuit quantities, this means that Ohm's Law is also immensely important. Ohm’s
Law is used within all branches of electrical and electronic science. It is used for calculating
the value of resistors required in circuits, and it can also be used for determining the current
flowing in a circuit where the voltage can be measured easily across a known resistor, but
more than this, Ohm's Law is used in a vast number of calculations in all forms of electrical
and electronic circuit- in fact anywhere that current flows (Electronic Notes 2020).

Units of Measurement: Volts, Amp, and Ohm

To be able to make meaningful statements about these quantities in circuits,

we need to be able to describe their quantities in the same way that we might quantify mass,
temperature, volume, length, or any other kind of physical quantity. For mass we might use
the units of kilogram or gram. For temperatures, we might use degrees Fahrenheit or degrees
Celsius. Here are standard units of measurement for electric current, voltage, and
resistance. ( Aspencore, 2020)

Table 3.1 Measurements in Ohms Law

Unit
Quantity Symbol Unit of Measurement
Abbreviation

Current I Ampere A

31
 Voltage V Volts V

Resistance R Ohm Ω

Lesson 2. Ohm’s Law Triangle

Georg Ohm found that, at a constant temperature, the electrical current flowing
through a fixed linear resistance is directly proportional to the voltage applied across it, and
also inversely proportional to the resistance( Aspencore, 2020).

According to Apenscore (2020) the relationship between the Voltage, Current and Resistance
forms the basis of Ohms Law and is:

To Find Voltage:𝑉 = 𝐼𝑅 ,Volts (V)

𝑉
To Find Current: 𝐼= , Amperes (A)
𝑅

𝑉
To Find Resistance: = , Ohms (Ω)
𝐼

By knowing any two values of the Voltage, Current or Resistance quantities we can
use Ohms Law to find the third missing value. Ohms Law is used extensively in electronics
formulas and calculations so it is “very important” ( Aspencore, 2020).

Ohms Law Triangle

According to Apenscore (2020) first arrange the letters in V, I, and R in a Triangle.

32
 Figure 3.1 Ohms Law Triangle
Transposing the standard Ohms Law equation above will give us the following combinations
of the same equation:

Figure 3.2 Ohms Law Equations

Example:

1. If a voltage of 10 volts is placed across a 500 ohm resistor determine the amount of current
that will flow.

33
Looking at the Ohms Law triangle the current is the unknown leaving the voltage and
resistance as the known values.

𝑉
𝐼=
𝑅

In this way the current is found by dividing the voltage by the resistance.

10
𝐼= = 0.02 𝐴 𝑜𝑟 0.2𝑚𝐴
500

2. In a similar way it is possible to use Ohm's Law to find the resistance if the current and
voltage are known. Take, for example, a voltage of 10 volts, and a current 0.1A. Using the
Ohm's Law triangle, it can be seen that:

𝑉
𝑅=
𝐼

10
𝑅= = 100 Ω
0.1

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3. Finally, the other combination is that is the resistance and current are known, then it is
possible to calculate the voltage expected across the resistance. Take the example of a
distance of 250 Ω which has a current of 0.1 A flowing through it, then the voltage can be
calculated as below:

𝑉 = 𝐼𝑅
𝑉 = 0.1 (250)
𝑉 = 25 𝑉

Assessment Task 3

Answer the following Problem, Show your solution.

1. The current passing through a resistor in a circuit is 0.01 A when the voltage across
the same resistor is 5 V. What current passes through this resistor when the voltage
across it is 7.5 V?
2. Find the current I through a resistor of resistance R = 2 Ω if the voltage across the
resistor is 6 V.

3. A small light bulb is connected to a 6 V battery and draws 2 A of current. What is the
net resistance of the bulb?
4. A motor with an operating resistance of 32 ¾ is connected to a voltage source. The
current in the circuit is 1.5 A. What is the voltage of the source?
5. Determine the amount of current going through a 50 Ω; resistor with a voltage of 120
V.

35
 Summary

 Ohm’s law states that the voltage or potential difference between two points is directly
proportional to the current or electricity passing through the resistance, and directly
proportional to the resistance of the circuit

 Ohm's Law is used within all branches of electrical and electronic science. It is used
for calculating the value of resistors required in circuits, and it can also be used for
determining the current flowing in a circuit where the voltage can be measured easily
across a known resistor, but more than this, Ohm's Law is used in a vast number of
calculations in all forms of electrical and electronic circuit- in fact anywhere that current
flows.

 The Unit of Resistance is Ohms, Current is Ampere, and Voltage is Volts.

References
Aspencore (2020) “Ohms law and Power” Electronics tutorials
https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/dccircuits/dcp_2.html

Electronic Notes (2020) “Ohms Law”

https://www.electronics-notes.com/articles/basic_concepts/resistance/what-is-ohms-
law-formula-equation.php

36
Ohms Law Review (n.d) All about circuit
https://www.allaboutcircuits.com/textbook/direct-current/chpt-2/voltage-current-
resistance-relate/

MODULE 4
POWER AND ENERGY

Introduction

37
 The "power rating" of electrical components is given in watts, which indicates the
maximum rate at which the system transforms the electrical power into other types of energy
such as heat, light or motion. A 1/4W resistor, 100W light bulb etc., for example electrical
appliances transform one power source into another.For example, an electrical motor will
cover up electrical energy into a mechanical force, while an electrical generator will convert
mechanical force into electrical energy. A light bulb will convert electrical energy into heat and
light. The quantity symbol for power is P, and is the voltage product multiplied by the current
with the measuring unit being Watt (W).Prefixes are used to denote the various multiples or
sub-multiples of a watt, for example: milliwatts (mW = 10-3W) or kilowatts (kW = 103W) (
Aspencore, 2020)

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module, students should be able to:

1. Understand relationship of Power and Ohms Law

2. Compute Power from Voltage, Current, and Resistance

Lesson 1. Ohm’s Law and Power

Electrical Power, (P) in a circuit is the rate at which energy is absorbed or produced
within a circuit. A source of energy such as a voltage will produce or deliver power while the
connected load absorbs it. Light bulbs and heaters for example, absorb electrical power and
convert it into either heat, or light, or both. The higher their value or rating in watts the more
electrical power they are likely to consume (Electronic Notes, 2020).

38
 The quantity symbol for power is P and is the product of voltage multiplied by the
current with the unit of measurement being the Watt (W). Then by using Ohm’s law and
substituting for the values of V, I and R the formula for electrical power can be found as:

To find the Power (P)

In terms of Current and Voltage:𝑷 = 𝑰𝑽,Watts (W)

From Ohms Law,

𝑉 𝑉
𝑉 = 𝐼𝑅 , Volts (V)𝐼 = , Amperes (A)𝑅 = , Ohms (Ω)
𝑅 𝐼

Derivation:

Power Formula in terms of Current and Voltage

𝑃 = 𝐼𝑉
Substitute the value of V in the voltage formula 𝑉 =
𝑃 = 𝐼(𝐼𝑅) 𝐼𝑅 from Ohms law

Power Formula in terms of Current and Resistance

𝑷 = 𝑰𝟐 𝑹

𝑃 = 𝐼2 𝑅 Power Formula in terms of Current and Resistance

𝑉2 𝑉
𝑃= 𝑅 Substitute value of I from Ohms Law 𝐼=
𝑅2 𝑅

Power Formula in terms of Voltage and Resistance

𝑽𝟐
𝑷= 𝑹

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Lesson 2. Power Triangle

The three quantities have been superimposed into a triangle this time called a Power
Triangle with power at the top and current and voltage at the bottom. This arrangement
represents the actual position of each quantity within the Ohms law power formulas (Electronic
Notes 2020).

Figure 4.1 Power Triangle

According to Electronic Notes (2020) transposing the basic Ohms Law equation above for
power gives us the following combinations of the same equation to find the various individual
quantities:

Figure 4.2 Power Equations

So we can see that there are three possible formulas for calculating electrical power
in a circuit. If the calculated power is positive, (+P) in value for any formula the component
absorbs the power that is it is consuming or using power. But if the calculated power is
negative, (–P) in value the component produces or generates power, in other words it is a
source of electrical power such as batteries and generators (Electronic Notes 2020).

Electrical Energy in Circuits

40
 Electrical Energy is the capacity to do work, and the unit of work or energy is
the joule (J). Electrical energy is the product of power multiplied by the length of time it was
consumed. In other words, Energy = power x time and Power = voltage x current. Therefore
electrical power is related to energy and the unit given for electrical energy is the watt-seconds
or joules (Gibbs 2020.)

𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐𝑎𝑙𝐸𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦 = 𝑃𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟 (𝑇𝑖𝑚𝑒)

Electrical power can also be defined as the rate of by which energy is transferred. If
one joule of work is either absorbed or delivered at a constant rate of one second, then the
corresponding power will be equivalent to one watt so power can be defined as “1Joule/sec =
1Watt”. Then we can say that one watt is equal to one joule per second and electrical power
can be defined as the rate of doing work or the transferring of energy (Gibbs 2020.)

Example Problem:
1. Calculate the power of a 12V light bulb using 2.5 A
Power = V I = 12 (2.5) = 30 W
2. Calculate the power of a 12 V immersion heater that is designed to deliver 30 000 J in
5 minutes
Energy = Power (Time) = 30 000 J 5min(60s) = 300s
Power is also equal to Energy/Time
P= 30 000 J/ 300 seconds = 100 J/s or Watts
3. Calculate the energy given out by a 12 V car battery that delivers a current of 200A for
3 seconds.
Energy = Power (Time)
Power = IV
Energy = VI (t)= 12(200)(3) = 72 000 J
4. Calculate the resistance of a 100W light bulb if it takes a current of 0.8 A.
Formula of power in terms of Current and Resistance𝑷 = 𝑰𝟐 𝑹
100
Therefore; 𝑅 = 0.64
= 156.3 𝑊

Assessment Task 4

41
 Answer the following problems below, Show your solution.

1. Calculate the power loss in an electrical transmission cable, 15 km long, carrying a

current of 100A at a potential of 200 kV. The Resistance per km of the cable is 0.2Ω.

2. What power is supplied to the heater of electric bar fire with a resistance of 50Ω
connected to the mains 240 V supply?

3. What is the power loss down a copper connecting lead 50 cm long with a resistance of
0.005 50Ω per meter when it carries a current of 1.5A?

4. Calculate the power of a 12V immersion heater with a resistance of 10Ω.

Summary

 Electrical Power, (P) in a circuit is the rate at which energy is absorbed or produced
within a circuit. A source of energy such as a voltage will produce or deliver power
while the connected load absorbs it. Light bulbs and heaters for example, absorb
electrical power and convert it into either heat, or light, or both.

42
  Electrical Energy is the capacity to do work, and the unit of work or energy is
the joule (J). Electrical energy is the product of power multiplied by the length of time
it was consumed. In other words, Energy = power x time and
Power = voltage x current

References

Aspencore (2020) “Ohms law and Power” Electronics tutorials

https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws/dccircuits/dcp_2.html

Electronic Notes (2020) “Resistors Types, Uses and Details”

https://www.electronics-notes.com/articles/electronic_components/resistors/resistor-
types.php

43