MODULE 03 - Building Electrical Circuits and Components
MODULE 03 - Building Electrical Circuits and Components
ARCHITECTURE DEPARTMENT
CONTENTS
Understanding Circuits and its Concept
What is an Electrical Circuit?
An electrical circuit is a closed loop or pathway that allows electric current to flow from a power source to a
load (such as a light bulb, motor, or other devices) and back to the power source. The basic components of a
circuit include:
Conductors
Materials (usually wires) that allow electric current to flow
through them. Conductors connect the power source to the
load and back.
Load
The component in the circuit that uses the electrical energy
to perform work, such as lighting a bulb or running a motor.
Control Device
A switch or relay that can open (turn off) or close (turn on)
the circuit, controlling the flow of electricity.
In a series circuit, all components (resistors, In a parallel circuit, all components are connected
Configuration capacitors, inductors, etc.) are connected end-to- across the same two points, creating multiple paths
end in a single path, so the same current flows for current to flow. Each component is directly
through each component. connected to the power source.
The current is the same through all components. If The total current supplied by the source is divided
Current Flow one component fails (open circuit), the entire circuit among the parallel branches. The current in each
is broken, and current stops flowing. branch is inversely proportional to the resistance of
that branch.
The total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of The total resistance in a parallel circuit is found
Resistance the individual resistances: using the formula:
SERIES CIRCUITS
PARALLEL CIRCUITS
SERIES CIRCUITS
PARALLEL CIRCUITS
Current Flow
In series circuits, current is the same through all components, whereas in parallel circuits, current is divided among the
paths.
Voltage
In series circuits, voltage is divided among the components, while in parallel circuits, each component receives the full
supply voltage.
Failure Impact
In a series circuit, the failure of one component stops the entire circuit. In a parallel circuit, other components can continue
to operate even if one fails.
Resistance
Series circuits increase total resistance, while parallel circuits decrease total resistance.
Design
Some circuits combine both series and parallel configurations to achieve desired electrical characteristics. For example, in
a complex system, some components may be wired in series to achieve a specific voltage drop, while others are wired in
parallel for independent operation.
Application
Series-parallel circuits are common in electronic devices, automotive systems, and power distribution networks where
different parts of the circuit require different levels of current and voltage.
Types of Wires
NM CABLE
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Types of Wires
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NM CABLE
Often called “Romex” after one popular brand name, NONMETALLIC (NM) CABLE is a type of circuit wiring designed for
interior use in dry locations. NM is the most common type of wiring in modern homes. It consists of two or more individual
wires wrapped inside a protective plastic sheathing. NM cable usually contains one or more “hot” (current-carrying) wires,
a neutral wire, and a ground wire.
These conductors are insulated in white (usually neutral) and black (usually hot) for installation. Most NM cables have a
flattened tubular shape and run invisibly through the walls, ceiling, and floor cavities of your homes.
Types of Wires
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Types of Wires
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NM CABLE
The most common sizes and their amperage (amp) ratings are:
Types of Wires
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NM CABLE
Types of Wires
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Types of Wires
UF CABLE
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Types of Wires
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UF CABLE
UNDERGROUND FEEDER (UF) is a type of nonmetallic cable designed for wet locations and direct burial in the ground.
It is commonly used for supplying outdoor fixtures, such as lampposts. Like standard NM cable, UF contains insulated hot
and neutral wires, plus a bare copper ground wire. But while sheathing on NM cable is a separate plastic wrap, UF cable
sheathing is solid plastic that surrounds each wire.
This type of electrical wire is also a bit more expensive than NM wire because of its durable insulation. UF cable is
normally sold with gray outer sheathing.
Types of Wires
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Types of Wires
THHN / THWN WIRE
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Types of Wires
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Best for: Wiring inside of conduit in exposed, often unfinished, areas of the home
THHN and THWN are codes for the two most common types of insulated wire used inside conduit. Unlike NM cable, in
which two or more individually insulated conductors (copper or aluminum) are bundled inside a plastic sheathing, THHN
and THWN wires are single conductors, each with its color-coded insulation. Instead of being protected by NM cable
sheathing, these wires are protected by tubular metal or plastic conduit.
Types of Wires
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THHN / THWN WIRE
Conduit is often used in unfinished areas, such as basements and garages, and for short exposed runs inside the home,
such as wiring connections for garbage disposers and hot water heaters. These wires typically have similar prices to NM
wire (plus the cost of the conduit). The letters indicate specific properties of the wire insulation:
T: Thermoplastic
H: Heat-resistant; HH means highly heat-resistant
W: Rated for wet locations
N: Nylon-coated, for added protection
THHN and THWN wires have colored sheathings that are generally used to identify their function in a circuit:
Types of Wires
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Types of Wires
LOW-VOLTAGE WIRE
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Types of Wires
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LOW-VOLTAGE WIRE
LOW-VOLTAGE WIRING is used for circuits typically that require minimal voltage, such as landscape lighting wires,
sprinkler system connections, bell wires (for doorbells), speaker system wires, thermostat wires, or anything else that
requires 50 volts or less. Wire sizes range from about 22 gauge to 12 gauge, and these wires can be made of copper or
aluminum.
Low-voltage wires typically are insulated and may be contained in cable sheathing or combined in twisted pairs, similar to
lamp cord wire. These are typically very small wires that are much different from standard circuit wiring, and their costs
tend to be lower than other household wires.
Serious shocks rarely occur with low-voltage wires, but it is still always best to turn off devices before working with them.
Types of Wires
PHONE AND DATA CABLE
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Types of Wires
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PHONE AND DATA CABLE
TELEPHONE AND DATA CABLES are low-voltage wires used for landline phones and internet connections, typically
made from copper. Telephone cables may contain four or eight wires, while ethernet cables (internet connection) consist
of eight wires arranged in four twisted pairs.
The most commonly used telephone and data cables are Cat 5 (category 5) cable and its more modern counterpart Cat 6,
which can be used for both phone and data transmission and offer greater capacity and quality than standard phone wire.
Like low-voltage wire, ethernet cables are often cheaper than other types of household wiring like NM or UF cables.
Although data wiring does carry a small amount of voltage, anything under 30 volts is generally regarded as safe (a
household circuit carries about 120 volts of power). However, there is always a danger of data wiring coming into contact
with household wiring, so you should treat it with caution and avoid touching bare wires.
Types of Wires
COAXIAL WIRE
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Types of Wires
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COAXIAL WIRE
COAXIAL WIRE (popularly known as COAXIAL CABLE), or "co-ax," is used for connecting TVs to antenna, cable
services, and satellite dishes. While still used today, it's beginning to grow less common thanks to the use of other forms
of data wiring, such as HDMI, for television data transmission. The minuscule amount of voltage carried by coaxial cable
signals makes it very unlikely to cause a shock of any type — provided the cables are not in contact with another source
of current.
Coaxial cable is a round, jacketed cable that features an inner conductor (usually copper) surrounded by a black or white
tubular insulating layer, surrounded by a tubular conducting shield made of braided wire. It can be identified by the
threaded connectors that are used to make unions and device hookups.
Types of Wires
SPEAKER WIRE
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Types of Wires
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SPEAKER WIRE
SPEAKER WIRE is a simple two-conductor strand consisting of wires individually wrapped in plastic. Though connected,
they can easily be separated by hand. There is no difference between the two wires electrically speaking, but one or both
wires will often feature some type of marking to make them more easily traceable over a distance. This helps ensure
proper polarity when wiring up speakers.
When choosing speaker wire, consult the manufacturer's instructions closely. Many speaker manufacturers will specify
choosing larger gauge wire if running longer distances of wire or wiring up higher-ohm systems.
Types of Wires
SPEAKER WIRE
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Types of Wires
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RIBBON CABLE
RIBBON CABLE is a type of wiring where each wire conductor is attached at its side, creating a flat ribbon-like wire.
Much like "ribbon cable," its signature shape has earned names like "flat cable" and "multi-planar cable." The purpose of
this arrangement is to maximize the potential number of wires while minimizing the footprint, which allows for many wires
to fit in tight spaces.
Ribbon cable is often used in things like appliances, computers, printers, and other electronic devices that need to move a
significant amount of data within a tight housing. Flat connectors on each end allow the wire to connect at two points while
taking up a minimal amount of space.
Types of Wires
ARMORED CABLE
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Types of Wires
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ARMORED CABLE
ARMORED CABLE, which you may come across in an older home renovation, is a type of wiring that features a metal
jacket around the wires to protect them from damage.
Armored cable is often referred to as "BX cable”, though this is technically a specific branding of armored cable. One of
the purposes of armored cable's metal jacket is to eliminate the need for conduit, as the wire has its protective layer. This
cuts both material costs and labor costs.
Types of Wires
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Types of Wires
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ARMORED CABLE
Armored cable is often chosen for installation in interior locations that are exposed, which would leave the wiring
vulnerable to damage. In these spots, NM or THHN would require conduit, whereas armored cable can be installed as is.
Additionally, the metal jacket itself is utilized as a ground.
Types of Wires
METAL-CLAD CABLE
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Types of Wires
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ARMORED CABLE
METAL-CLAD CABLES, or MC CABLES, are very similar to armored cables, yet with some key distinctions. Like
armored cables, metal-clad cables feature metal sheathing that offers protection to the wiring, allowing it to be installed in
areas where it may be vulnerable to damage.
However, unlike armored cables, metal-clad cables feature a full-size designated ground wire, while armored cables rely
on a combination of the metal jacket and a thin wire or strip for grounding.
MC cables also feature plastic sheathing around the internal wires, while armored cable uses paper. MC cables can be
used indoors and outdoors, but can only be used in damp or wet locations when fitted with an outer PVC jacket and
properly installed with fittings rated for wet locations. When in doubt, consult your local building codes before installation.
Types of Wires
Types of Wire Insulators
Wire insulators are materials used to cover or coat electrical wires, preventing the flow of electricity from the
conductor to the surrounding environment, ensuring safety, and improving performance. Different types of
wire insulators are chosen based on the application, environmental conditions, and the electrical properties
required. Here’s an overview of the most common types of wire insulators:
Thermoplastic materials are widely used for wire insulation because they are
Thermoset materials, once cured, do not melt or deform at high temperatures,
flexible, durable, and resistant to heat and chemicals.
making them suitable for more demanding applications.
• Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
• Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE)
• Polyethylene (PE)
• Rubber (Ethylene Propylene Rubber, EPR)
• Teflon® (Polytetrafluoroethylene, PTFE)
• Silicon Rubber
• Nylon
Composite materials combine different insulating materials to enhance specific These insulators are designed for specific applications, providing unique
properties, such as strength, flexibility, or resistance to environmental factors. properties like resistance to fire, radiation, or harsh chemicals.
• Fiberglass • Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP)
• Mica • Kapton® (Polyimide)
Properties
Flexible, flame-retardant, moisture-resistant, and affordable.
Temperature Range
Typically rated for temperatures up to 75°C (167°F).
Applications
Used in general-purpose wiring, such as household wiring (e.g., NM cables,
appliance cords), and automotive wiring.
Properties
Excellent dielectric properties, moisture-resistant, and durable.
Temperature Range
Commonly rated for temperatures up to 80°C (176°F).
Applications
Used in coaxial cables, communication cables, and low-voltage applications where
high insulation resistance is needed.
Properties
Extremely heat-resistant, chemically inert, non-flammable, and has a low coefficient
of friction.
Temperature Range
Can withstand temperatures up to 260°C (500°F).
Applications
Used in high-temperature environments, such as aerospace, military, and industrial
applications, as well as in chemical-resistant environments.
Properties
Tough, abrasion-resistant, and has good chemical resistance.
Temperature Range
Typically rated for temperatures up to 105°C (221°F).
Applications
Often used as an additional outer jacket over PVC insulation in THHN/THWN wires,
providing extra mechanical protection.
Properties
Excellent thermal stability, moisture resistance, and mechanical strength.
Temperature Range
Typically rated for temperatures up to 90°C (194°F) under normal conditions, with
higher ratings for short-term overloads.
Applications
Used in high-voltage cables, automotive wiring, and industrial applications where
durability and heat resistance are essential.
Properties
Highly flexible, resistant to heat, ozone, and weathering, and has excellent
insulation properties.
Temperature Range
Rated for temperatures up to 90°C (194°F) for EPR and higher for other rubber
compounds.
Applications
Commonly used in flexible cords, welding cables, and underground wiring due to its
flexibility and resistance to harsh conditions.
Properties
Extremely heat-resistant, flexible, and resistant to chemicals and UV light.
Temperature Range
Can withstand temperatures up to 200°C (392°F) and sometimes higher.
Applications
Used in high-temperature environments, such as in appliances, automotive
applications, and in areas with high thermal stress.
Properties
High mechanical strength, heat resistance, and good dielectric properties.
Temperature Range
Can withstand temperatures up to 200°C (392°F) or higher, depending on the
composition.
Applications
Used in high-temperature applications, such as in heating elements, motors, and
transformers.
Properties
Excellent thermal stability, dielectric strength, and resistance to electrical arcing.
Temperature Range
Can withstand extreme temperatures up to 1000°C (1832°F).
Applications
Used in high-temperature and high-voltage environments, such as in heating
elements, motors, and electrical insulation in extreme conditions.
Properties
Similar to PTFE but easier to work with; has excellent chemical resistance and
dielectric properties.
Temperature Range
Rated for temperatures up to 200°C (392°F).
Applications
Used in harsh chemical environments, medical devices, and high-frequency
applications.
Properties
Extremely high thermal stability, excellent dielectric properties, and chemical
resistance.
Temperature Range
Can withstand temperatures up to 400°C (752°F).
Applications
Used in extreme environments, such as aerospace, military, and electronics where
high heat resistance is crucial.
Description
In open wiring, electrical wires are run openly along walls, ceilings, or other surfaces without
being enclosed in conduits.
Applications
Typically used in temporary installations, industrial settings, or historical buildings where
authenticity is maintained. It is rarely used in modern permanent installations due to safety
concerns.
Description
PVC conduits are non-metallic, rigid, and made from polyvinyl chloride. They are popular for both
indoor and outdoor wiring.
Applications
Commonly used in residential, commercial, and some industrial settings, particularly in damp or
corrosive environments like basements, outdoors, or underground installations.
Description
EMT, also known as "thin-wall conduit," is a type of metal conduit that is lighter and thinner than
other metal conduits like IMC or RMC.
Applications
Widely used in commercial and industrial buildings for indoor wiring, especially in environments
where mechanical protection is necessary but space is limited.
Description
IMC is a heavier-duty type of metal conduit compared to EMT, offering greater protection for
wires.
Applications
Used in environments requiring more durability than EMT, such as outdoor installations, industrial
settings, and areas with higher risks of physical damage.
Description
RMC is the thickest and most durable type of metal conduit, typically made from galvanized steel
or aluminum.
Applications
Used in industrial settings, outdoor installations, and hazardous locations where maximum
protection is needed.
Description
FMC is a flexible conduit made from helically-wound metal, allowing it to bend and flex around
obstacles.
Applications
Commonly used in areas with limited space, for connecting equipment that moves or vibrates, or
where rigid conduits are impractical.
Description
LFMC is similar to FMC but includes a waterproof plastic coating, making it suitable for wet or
damp environments.
Applications
Used in wet or damp locations, outdoor equipment connections, and areas exposed to water or
other liquids.
Description
ENT is a flexible, non-metallic tubing made from plastic, often used in residential and light
commercial applications.
Applications
Commonly used in residential buildings, behind walls, in ceilings, or other areas where flexibility is
required.
Description
Also known as PVC conduit, RNC is a rigid non-metallic conduit used for a variety of applications.
Applications
Used in outdoor, underground, and industrial settings where corrosion resistance is critical.
Description
MCI refers to cables that are protected by a flexible metal sheath, often combined with an internal
plastic coating for additional insulation.
Applications
Used in commercial and industrial settings where both flexibility and protection are required, such
as in walls, ceilings, and machinery connections.
Description
Cable trays are not conduits but are used to support and organize multiple cables along a
building's structure.
Applications
Used in commercial and industrial settings, particularly in data centers, factories, and large
buildings where many cables need to be routed and organized.
Description
Junction boxes are enclosures where electrical connections (junctions) are made between
different wires or cables. They protect the connections and make them easily accessible for
inspection, maintenance, and future modifications.
Applications
Residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems where multiple wires or cables need to
be connected, split, or rerouted.
Description
Pull boxes are used to facilitate the installation of long conduit runs by providing an accessible
point for pulling and feeding wires or cables through conduits. They help reduce the strain on
wires and make it easier to install or replace wiring in complex or lengthy conduit systems.
Applications
Used in commercial, industrial, and large residential wiring systems where long conduit runs are
common, such as in multi-story buildings, factories, or large outdoor areas.
Description
Utility boxes, also known as device boxes or outlet boxes, house devices such as switches,
outlets, dimmers, and other electrical controls. They provide a secure and accessible enclosure
for these devices, protecting them and the wiring connections from damage.
Applications
Used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings to house electrical outlets, switches, and
other control devices. Also used in remodeling or new construction projects.