The Basics of Legally Required Standby Systems
Jan 1, 2003, By Mike Holt, NEC Consultant
Emergency rescue efforts in your facility may depend on how well you meet Art. 701 requirements....
AC Fundamentals
Jan 1, 2003, By R. Fehr, P.E., Engineering Consultant
Alternating current circuits improve the versatility and usefulness of electric power systems...
The Basics of Digital Multimeters
Jan 1, 2003, By Jim Gregorec, Ideal Industries, Inc.
Here’s a primer on symbology, terminology, connections, and basic measurement techniques for modern multimeters...
The Basics of Surge Protection
Oct 1, 2002, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
Surge protection basics are the foundation for a solid protection strategy....
The Basics of Grounding
Sep 1, 2002, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
You can understand grounding by overcoming common reasons for confusion....
Understanding Air Pressure Systems for OSP Cabling
Jul 1, 2002, By Joe A. Hite, RCDD/OSP Specialist, CT Communications
Although not as common as they once were, air pressure systems do still exist, so you should prepare yourself for when you encounter one....
The Basics of Electric Shock
Jun 1, 2002, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
Proper impedance paths are critical to shock prevention....
Speak to Your Electrical System With PLCs
May 30, 2002, By Ted McGee, Siemens Energy & Automation Co.
With integrated diagnostics and override functions, PLCs have become easier to use and much less expensive....
Understanding LED Technology
Apr 1, 2002, By Joe Knisley, Senior Editorial Consultant
LEDs may be little, but new high-brightness models are producing a considerable amount of light....
The Basics of Arc-Fault Protection
Apr 1, 2002, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
Although new to the NEC, AFCIs are important for protecting against arc faults....
A Brief Guide to Pin-and-Sleeve Devices
Apr 1, 2002, By Arthur Hansen, Cooper Wiring Devices
If properly selected, pin-and-sleeve devices can cure some common installation problems....
How GFCIs Work
Mar 1, 2002, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
You may know what a GFCI is, but do you really know how it works? A basic understanding of the device can prevent safety problems....
The Basics of Electrical Systems
Jan 1, 2002, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
Do you understand neutrals and fault current paths?...
Understanding NEC Circuit Classifications
Dec 1, 2001, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
To understand how and when to apply NEC Art. 725*, you must first understand how the NEC classifies remote-control, signal, and power-limited circuits. Each classification addresses different energy levels....
Understanding Circuit Breaker Markings
Nov 1, 2001, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
What you don’t know about circuit breaker markings can trip you up....
The Basics of Isolated Grounding Receptacles
Oct 1, 2001, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
Are your isolated ground receptacles safe?...
The Basics of Reducing Touch Potential
Apr 1, 2001, By Mike Holt, Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc.
Remove voltage on metal parts of an electrical system to protect against lethal shock. Here's a true or false question for you. Connecting metal parts...
Understanding and Specifying Optical-Fiber Cables
Apr 1, 2001, By Paul Rosenberg, Datacom Consultant
Structured cabling specifications ensure you purchase and install the right product for every job. Most significant installations of structured cabling...
GFCI Basics
Feb 1, 2001, By Mike Holt
A GFCI is only as good as its installation and inspection.A ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) is the only protection device designed to protect...
The Basics of Delta-Wye Transformers
Dec 1, 2000, By C. Sankaran
The electrical configuration of the delta-wye transformer makes it the most popular transformer connection in the world. When it comes to making proper...
Basic Principles and Best Practices
Dec 1, 2000, By Mark Lamendola
Our Back to Basics department is extremely popular. I think one reason why is all of us recognize the value of describing something simply, getting to...
Understanding Outdoor Area Lighting Design
Oct 1, 2000, By Joseph R. Knisley
A wide range of solutions can meet the diverse needs of site illumination....
The Basics of Infrared Thermometry
Oct 1, 2000, By Kate McGuire
You can gather important temperature information quickly and safely using infrared thermometers. But, you should know some key principles first....
Cable Termination Practices Simplified
Sep 1, 2000, By Paul Rosenberg
Proper cable termination practices are vital for the complete and accurate transfer of both analog and digital information signals....
Copper or Aluminum Lugs: How Should You Decide?
Sep 1, 2000, By John Paschal, P.E.
Does spending more money for copper lugs offer extra security and reduced maintenance?...
