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Power Factor
Power factor is a measure of how effectively electrical power is being used in a system. It is a ratio, expressed as a number between 0 and 1 (or as… Read More »Power Factor
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Glossary
Discover the Sparkie’s Glossary by expert electricians! This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource for understanding essential electrical terms and concepts. We’ve crafted clear and straight forward definitions to help you make sense of the electrical jargon. With our glossary, you’ll gain confidence and knowledge, making electrical topics more accessible and less daunting. Because we are PortSparky and love what we are doing!
Polarity
Polarity in electricity refers to the direction or orientation of electrical charges in a circuit. It determines which terminal is positive (+) and which is negative (−). In a direct… Read More »Polarity
Parallel Circuit
A parallel circuit is a type of electrical circuit where multiple paths are available for current to flow. In this setup, components like light bulbs or resistors are connected across… Read More »Parallel Circuit
Insulators
Electrical insulators are materials that resist the flow of electric current. They do not allow electrons to move freely through them, making them essential for safely managing electricity in various… Read More »Insulators
Induction
Induction is the process of generating an electric current or magnetic field without direct contact, usually through the influence of a changing magnetic field. This concept is fundamental in electromagnetism… Read More »Induction
Impedance
Electrical impedance is the total opposition that an electrical circuit offers to the flow of alternating current (AC). It combines two factors: resistance and reactance, which together determine how easily… Read More »Impedance
Ohms Law
Ohm’s Law is a fundamental principle in electricity that explains the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical circuit. It states that the current flowing through a circuit… Read More »Ohms Law
Volts
Volts are a unit used to measure voltage, which is the “pressure” that pushes electricity through a circuit. To understand volts, think of it like water in a pipe. Imagine… Read More »Volts
Conduit
Conduit is a protective tube used to enclose and safeguard electrical and communication cables. The type of conduit chosen depends on its application, environmental conditions, and specific wiring requirements. The… Read More »Conduit
Ohms (symbol: Ω)
Ohms (symbol: Ω) is the unit used to measure electrical resistance, which is the opposition that a material or component offers to the flow of electric current. The concept of… Read More »Ohms (symbol: Ω)
Ampere (amp)
The ampere (amp) is a unit that measures the flow of electricity, similar to how water flow through a pipe is measured. In this analogy, the electric current (amps) is… Read More »Ampere (amp)
Alternating Current (AC)
Alternating Current (AC) is a type of electrical current in which the flow of electrons periodically reverses direction. Unlike Direct Current (DC), where electrons flow continuously in one direction, AC’s… Read More »Alternating Current (AC)
Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
A kilowatt-hour (kWh) is a unit of energy commonly used to measure electricity consumption in Australia. It represents the amount of energy used by a device with a power rating… Read More »Kilowatt-hour (kWh)
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI), also known as a Residual Current Device (RCD) in Australia, is a crucial safety device designed to protect people from electrical shock. It works… Read More »Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)
GPO (General Purpose Outlet)
A GPO, or General Purpose Outlet, is a standard electrical socket found in residential and commercial buildings throughout Australia. It is used to connect various electrical appliances to the power… Read More »GPO (General Purpose Outlet)
Fuse
A fuse is a critical safety device used in electrical circuits to protect against overcurrent, which can cause excessive heat and lead to fires. In Australia, fuses are designed according… Read More »Fuse
Light Socket Adapter
A light socket adapter is a device that allows for the modification or expansion of existing light sockets in Australian homes and businesses. These adapters can convert a standard light… Read More »Light Socket Adapter
Edison Screw (ES) Socket
An Edison Screw (ES) socket is a type of light bulb socket commonly used in Australia and around the world. The ES socket is named after Thomas Edison, who developed… Read More »Edison Screw (ES) Socket
Master Electrician
A Master Electrician in Australia is a highly skilled and experienced professional who has achieved a significant level of expertise and certification in the electrical industry. The title “Master Electrician”… Read More »Master Electrician
NECA (National Electrical and Communications Association)
The National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) is the peak industry body representing electrical and communications contractors in Australia. NECA provides advocacy, education, and support to its members, which include… Read More »NECA (National Electrical and Communications Association)
Switchboard
A switchboard is a central component of an electrical installation, responsible for distributing electricity from the main supply to various circuits within a building. In Australia, switchboards are designed and… Read More »Switchboard
Safety Switches (RCDs)
Safety switches, also known as Residual Current Devices (RCDs), are critical safety devices designed to protect individuals from electric shock and prevent electrical fires. In Australia, including Port Macquarie, NSW,… Read More »Safety Switches (RCDs)
AS/NZS 3000 Standard
The AS/NZS 3000 standard, commonly known as the Australian Wiring Rules, is a comprehensive set of guidelines that govern the design, installation, and safety of electrical systems in Australia and… Read More »AS/NZS 3000 Standard
Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker is a critical safety device used in electrical systems to protect circuits from overloads and short circuits. In Australia, including New South Wales (NSW), circuit breakers are… Read More »Circuit Breaker
Single-Phase Power
Single-phase power is a type of electrical power distribution commonly used in residential and small commercial buildings in Australia. It refers to a system where electrical power is delivered through… Read More »Single-Phase Power
Surge Protector
A surge protector is an electrical device designed to protect electrical equipment from voltage spikes and surges, which can be caused by lightning strikes, power outages, or other disruptions in… Read More »Surge Protector
Three-Phase Load
A three-phase load refers to an electrical system that uses three separate alternating currents (AC) phases to distribute power. This type of power distribution is commonly used in commercial and… Read More »Three-Phase Load
Fused Spurs
A fused spur, also known as a fused connection unit (FCU), is an electrical device used to provide a safe and convenient method of connecting and isolating electrical appliances in… Read More »Fused Spurs
Electrical Tape
Electrical tape is a type of insulating tape used in electrical work to insulate wires, protect connections, and prevent electrical shorts. In Australia, including coastal regions, electrical tape is an… Read More »Electrical Tape
Essential Energy
Essential Energy is a major electricity distributor operating in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. The company is responsible for the maintenance and operation of the electricity network that delivers power… Read More »Essential Energy
Electrician’s Licence
An electrician’s licence is a legal certification required for individuals to perform electrical work in Australia. It ensures that electricians have the necessary skills, knowledge, and qualifications to safely and… Read More »Electrician’s Licence
DC Load
A DC load refers to electrical devices or systems that operate on direct current (DC) rather than alternating current (AC). In Australia, DC loads are commonly found in applications such… Read More »DC Load