EE114-1 Homework 2

1. What is the service entrance of a building electrical system and what are its components?

Service entrance of a building electrical system is a system of components that serves as a way for the
power from the service drop to reach the server disconnect or breaker inside the building.
Components:
a. Conductors – may consist of individual wires which is where the current flow from the
transformer, metering device and into the service disconnect. It runs through a protective
raceway the prevents it from getting damaged.

b. Service entrance equipment – It is what receives the service entrance conductors. It has several
equipment that are used for measuring power, cutting off power, and protect service entrance
conductors.

c. Service head – Designed to prevent water or debris from entering the raceway

d. Service disconnect – Set of fuses or circuit breaker that protects the conductor and provide an
option to disconnect the power to the building by switching it off.

2. What are the functions and differences of switchboards and panelboards?

Switchboards and panelboards are used in service entrance applications while switchboards can also be
used for power distribution and circuit protection functions. The difference between them is that
panelboards are mounted on a wall while switchboards are free standing on a floor which gives it more
options on how to utilize it. The rear of the switchboard can be accessed since it is free standing.
Common switchboards are usually rated higher at 1,200 A to 1,500 A than panelboards which are
usually rated at 100 A to 1,200 A.

3. What is the difference between a step-down and step-up transformer?

A step-up transformer raises the output voltage while a step-down transformer lowers the output
voltage. Step-up transformer has a rating of output voltage at around 11,000 Volts or above while step-
down transformer has a rating of output voltage at around 110 Volts and below. Step-up transformers
are usually used in power plants, x-rays machine, microwaves, etc. Step-down transformers are usually
used in doorbells, voltage converter, etc.

4. What is a circuit breaker and where is it used in a building electrical system?

Circuit breaker is used for closing or opening an electric circuit and protecting the electrical system from
damage caused by fault current. Circuit breakers are in the electrical panel where they are labelled by
even and odd numbers. There is also a larger circuit breaker which is the main breaker that can
completely cutoff power in the building.
 5. What is a fuse and where is it used in a building electrical system?

Fuse is used as an overcurrent protective device which is designed to melt and be severed when there is
a fault current. Fuses are connected in series to the component that will be protected from the fault
current. If a fuse is connected in a branch of parallel circuit, it will only affect where it is connected.

6. What are types of conductor (wire) materials and where are they used in building electrical
systems?
a. Electrical conductor – Used in electrical system to conduct electrical current
b. Bus bar – An electrical conductor which is usually copper or aluminum that connects electrical
circuits.
c. Cable – Conductor that are bundled together that is utilized for easier installation of wiring.
d. Insulated conductor – Conductor that is insulated which is used to prevent electrocution.
e. Covered conductor – Conductor that is covered with a thick material which is used for
protection.
f. Bare conductor – Conductor with no cover or insulation. Used for its good thermal and electrical
conductivity. It is used as an earthing cable.
g. Cable – A conductor or a group of conductors that are insulated from each other.
h. Raceway – Used to manage and hold wires, cables, and busbars.

7. What is the difference between a receptacle and plug-in building electrical systems?

Receptacle is installed in an outlet where the plug-in is inserted. Plug-in is a connecting device which is
inserted to the receptacle.

8. Distinguish between the terms appliance and device. Give examples of each.

Electrical appliances are the things that utilize electricity to perform its designed function. It is
commonly used by people in everyday life because it can make work easier and give comfort. Examples
of electrical appliances are air conditioner, electric fan, washing machine, microwave, etc.

Electrical devices are component of an electrical system which is designed to carry and distribute
electricity. Electrical devices are not designed to use electricity. Examples of electrical devices are
switches, receptacles, relays, etc.

9. What is a busway and where is it used in building electrical systems?

Busway is factory-assembled enclosure which is used for conducting current. It is used as an alternative
for conducting electricity to power cables.

10. How are electric motors rated?

Electric motors are rated in horsepower or watt. In rating an electric motor, there are important things
considered such as its ventilation system. Its rating indicates the required supply voltage for the machine
that use the motor to function properly.