Md Nazmul Islam
Forward and Reverse Bias
Definition:
A PN junction diode works in two modes depending on how the external voltage is applied:
Forward Bias: Current flows easily.
Reverse Bias: Current is almost blocked.
Forward Bias (GIF Reference):
In the GIF:
The P-side (pink) is connected to the positive terminal of the battery, and the N-side (blue) is connected to the...
PN Junction Diode
Definition:
A PN junction diode is formed when a p-type semiconductor (rich in holes) is joined with an n-type semiconductor (rich in electrons). The junction between them allows current to flow in only one direction — making it the simplest and most widely used semiconductor device.
Explanation with GIF:
The left side...
Intrinsic & Extrinsic Semiconductors
Intrinsic Semiconductor
Definition:
An intrinsic semiconductor is a pure form of semiconductor material (like silicon or germanium) with no impurities. Its electrical conductivity comes only from the breaking of covalent bonds due to heat, which generates equal numbers of free electrons and holes.
Explanation with GIF:
In the image, you see atoms arranged...
Electrical Symbols on Floor Plans: Residential Blueprint Chart
Read any residential electrical blueprint: chart of floor plan symbols for outlets, GFCI, switches (S, S3, S4), lights, panels and appliances, with labels explained.
Symbols for Lighting Fixtures in Wiring Diagrams
Light fixture symbols help differentiate between types of lighting. Ceiling lights, for example, are often drawn as circles representing the light fixture itself. Solid lines extending from the circle show the direction of light or the fixture's coverage area.
Meanwhile, wall lights are typically drawn as a half-circle or a...
Switch Symbols and Their Uses
Generic Switch Symbol
It is the symbol of a generic switch in open condition.
Closed switch
It is a generic symbol for closed switch. a closed switch means the circuit is complete & current can flow through it.
Thermal Magnetic Switch
It is the symbol of thermal magnetic switch. it incorporates both electromagnetic and...
Must-Know Electrical Symbols for Electricians
Location Symbols for Installations
Machine, general symbol* function etcLoad, general symbol* detailsMotor starter, general symbol* Indicates type etc.Socket-outlet, general symbol Twin Socket-outlet, general symbolSwitched socket-outlet Twin Switched socket-outletSwitch, general symbol2 way switch, single poleIntermediate switchPull switch, single-polePush buttonClock, general symbolBell (Audible)Buzzer (Audible)Siren (Audible)HornTelephone handset, general symbol
Popular Symbols
Making and breaking current
SwitchSwitch- fuseFuse-switch
Isolating
Isolator (Disconnector),...
Introduction to Common Electrical Symbols
Electrical symbols are universal representations used in diagrams and schematics to show electrical components and connections clearly.
Power Supply Schematic Symbols
SchematicSymbolSymbol IdentificationDescription of SymbolSingle CellA single DC battery cell of 0.5VDC Battery SupplyA collection of single cells forming a DC battery supplyDC Voltage SourceA constant DC voltage supply of a...
Importance of Earthing Rules in Installations
What is Earthing and Bonding?
Earthing: Connects electrical systems to the ground, providing a safe path for fault currents. Prevents shocks by directing excess electricity into the earth.
Bonding: Connects all exposed metallic parts together to keep them at the same potential, reducing shock risks.
Why Earthing and Bonding are Crucial
⚡ Protection...
Maximum Load Capacity Rules for Circuits
🔌 What is Electrical Capacity?
Electrical capacity = maximum electricity a circuit, panel, or generator can handle safely.
Measured in Amperes (Amps).
Exceeding capacity → risk of tripped breakers, short circuits, or fire.
📊 Typical Electrical Panel Capacities by Home Age
Before 1950 → ~30 Amps (knob-and-tube, fuses).
1950s–1960s → ~60 Amps.
1960–1980 → ~100 Amps.
1980...
Rules for Installing Switches and Sockets
General Rules
All plugs and socket outlets must be 3-pin type.
Provide an adequate number of sockets in each room.
In sub-power circuits:
Use only 3-pin, 16A sockets.
Each sub-circuit can supply a maximum of 2 sockets with total load not exceeding 3000W.
Appliances requiring more than 16A must be controlled by a double-pole switch.
Height...
Electrical Wiring Color Codes: US, IEC, UK & Canada Chart
Wiring color codes for AC and DC: US NEC, Canada, UK and IEC hot, neutral and ground colors in one chart, including 208 V vs 480 V three-phase.
National Electrical Code (NEC) Basics Every Electrician Should Know
What is the NEC?
The National Electrical Code (NEC) sets the standard for safe electrical wiring and equipment installation in the U.S.
Published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Updated every 3 years to include new technologies and safety practices.
Covers everything from wiring inside walls to panels, breakers, batteries, solar, and...
How to Prevent Electrical Shocks on the Job Site
Electrocution is one of the most serious hazards at work. Following simple precautions can greatly reduce the risk.
🔧 1. Use the Right Equipment
Choose double-insulated tools for extra protection.
Install and maintain Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) to cut power instantly when faults occur.
Test GFCIs regularly to make sure they work properly.
⚠️...
Safe Handling of Live Wires and Circuits
⚡ Safe Handling of Live Wires and Circuits
🔎 Hazards of Improper Handling
Electrical Shock – direct contact with live wires.
Fire Risk – overloaded/damaged wires can overheat.
Trip Hazards – loose or messy cables cause accidents.
Equipment Damage – poor installation harms devices.
📝 Pre-Installation Safety
Site Inspection – check for water, panels, foot traffic.
Plan...
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) – Why It’s Important for Electricians
🔒 Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) – Why It Matters
⚡ What is Lockout/Tagout?
LOTO = Lock + Tag on equipment during repair, servicing, or maintenance.
Prevents unexpected startup or release of hazardous energy.
Required under OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.147.
Protects electricians, machine operators, laborers, and other workers.
🛡️ Why It’s Important
Creates an Electrically Safe Work Condition...
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in Electrical Work
🛡️ Types of PPE
Head Protection – Hard hats with electrical insulation.
Eye & Face Protection – Safety glasses, goggles, face shields (for sparks/arc flash).
Hearing Protection – Earplugs for noisy equipment.
Hand & Arm Protection – Insulated gloves, rubber lineman gloves, protective sleeves.
Foot & Leg Protection – Non-conductive safety shoes, dielectric overshoes.
Body...
Basic Electrical Safety Rules Every Electrician Must Follow
Keep equipment away from water – Maintain at least 5 feet distance and use GFCIs to prevent shocks and fire hazards.
Unplug safely – Always pull from the plug, not the cord, to avoid damage and electric shock.
Install & tidy cords – Ensure proper installation and keep cords neat and...
Resistor
A simple circuit with a single resistor connected to a voltage source (battery).
Charges move through the resistor from the positive terminal of the source to the negative.
The animation often shows little dots or markers representing electric charge or current flow.
From the resistor’s point of view
The resistor resists the flow...
Fourier series triangle wave circles
What a triangle wave is
A triangle wave is a periodic waveform that linearly ramps up then linearly ramps down (or vice versa), forming a triangular shape.
It has slope changes at the peaks (sharp corners), unlike sine waves which are smooth.
What Fourier series does here
Fourier series lets you express a...
Square Waveform
What is a square wave
A square wave is a periodic waveform that switches between two levels (for example +A and −A, or “on” and “off”) with instantaneous transitions.
It’s one of the basic waveforms in electronics, signal processing, music synthesis etc.
What is shown in the image
The waveform alternates between two...
Sinusoidal wave
A Sinusoidal wave in the context of Electrical or Electronics Engineering is used to represent a time-varying voltage or current whose average value in a cycle is zero. Mathematically, this waveform can be represented by the equation.
AC Voltage
Alternating Voltage (AC Voltage): Voltage that changes direction periodically, usually in a sinusoidal pattern.
A sine wave represents AC voltage and current.
Voltage and current rise from 0 → maximum → 0 → negative maximum → 0, repeatedly.
AC Inductive Circuit
As you can see, the current through the coil is 90° out of phase - and delayed. Why? The periodically alternating current flow creates a magnetic field in the coil that also alternates periodically. This alternating magnetic field in turn results in an induction voltage, which (according to...
