Université des sciences et de la technologie

houari-Boumediene

Faculty of electrical engineering

Electrotechnical department

Technical english homework

Master 1 : renewable energy

Work done by :

- Moussaoui Katia
- Bouziane Meriem
- Bensouiki Abdeldjalal
- Oubara Wissam
- Khodja Nacer
- Hassani Ihab
Homework 1: Using active reading strategies
simple circuit :The circuit diagrams depicted below illustrate lamps connected in both a
parallel and a series circuit. The power source includes live and neutral conductors. In an
alternating current (AC) supply, it's noteworthy that conductors on the neutral side of
appliances are grounded, meaning they are connected to the earth (ground).

Understanding Circuit Configurations and Electrical Safety :

Introduction:
In the domain of electrical circuits, grasping the structures of parallel and series circuits is
essential. This discourse explores the traits of lamps in each circuit type, elucidating their
unique behaviors. Additionally, an investigation into live and neutral conductors in the realm
of alternating current (AC) supply reveals the pivotal safety measure of grounding neutral
conductors.

 Parallel and Series Circuits:

Within a parallel circuit, lamps are interconnected to have individual pathways for the
current, ensuring an even distribution of electricity. In case one lamp fails, the others stay
illuminated. On the flip side, series circuits involve lamps connected sequentially. If one lamp
fails in a series circuit, it disrupts the entire current flow, causing all lamps to extinguish
simultaneously. Circuit diagrams visually depict these distinctions.

 Live and Neutral Conductors:

In the provision of electricity to appliances, the live and neutral conductors have crucial
functions. The live conductor transports current from the source to the appliance, and the
neutral conductor completes the circuit by returning the current to the source. Grasping the
roles of these conductors is essential for comprehending the dynamics of electrical circuits.

 Grounding of Neutral Conductors:

In an AC supply, neutral conductors are either grounded or connected to the earth. This
safety precaution guarantees that any surplus current is safely directed into the ground,
reducing the potential for electric shock or fire. The grounding of neutral conductors serves as
a protective barrier, heightening the safety of electrical systems across diverse applications.

 Application:

Applying knowledge of these circuit configurations and safety measures has tangible
benefits. In practical situations, this understanding enables the creation of more dependable
electrical systems. Moreover, it supports compliance with safety protocols, ultimately
lessening the likelihood of electrical accidents and promoting the durability of appliances.
 Conclusion:
In conclusion, comprehending parallel and series circuits, as well as the functions of live
and neutral conductors, is essential for navigating the intricacies of electrical systems.
Grounding neutral conductors stands out as a crucial safety practice, highlighting the close
link between electrical theory and practical applications. This understanding sets the
foundation for the development of safer and more efficient electrical infrastructures.

Homework 2: using active reading strategies

Mains AC circuits and switchboards:

At the point where an AC supply enters a building, it links up with a switchboard. This
board features multiple switches that control various circuits within the building, allowing
them to be activated or deactivated. Among these circuits are power circuits, responsible for
supplying power to the sockets accommodating appliance plugs. Typically, each circuit is
equipped with a circuit-breaker, a safety switch designed to automatically cut off power in
case of issues, such as a person contacting a live conductor or a short circuit. A short circuit
occurs when current flows directly from a live conductor to a neutral conductor, often due to
damaged insulation. Additionally, circuit breakers enable manual switching off of circuits for
isolation, ensuring a safe shutdown, especially before maintenance work. It's worth noting
that the equipment in switchboards is commonly referred to as switchgear.

Mains AC Circuits, Switchboards, and Electrical Safety

Introduction:
Within the complex network of electrical systems in buildings, switchboards serve as the
central hub, orchestrating the movement of mains AC circuits. This conversation explores the
essential function of switchboards and the critical safety features offered by circuit breakers,
elucidating their contributions to the comprehensive functionality of electrical systems.

 Switchboards in Electrical Systems:

Switchboards function as the entry point for mains AC circuits into buildings, containing
switches that regulate different circuits within the structure. This vital equipment, commonly
known as switchgear, plays a key role in facilitating the effective distribution of electrical
power.

 Power Circuits and Appliance Connectivity:

Power circuits constitute the essential framework for electrical connectivity within
buildings, providing the required energy to operate sockets for various appliances. These
circuits play a crucial role in supporting the functionality of a wide range of electrical devices.
  Circuit Breakers for Safety:
Circuit breakers stand as protectors of electrical safety, automatically disconnecting circuits
when faced with concerns such as contact with a live conductor or a short circuit. Going
beyond functionality, circuit breakers actively prevent electrical accidents and potential fires.

 Short Circuits and Circuit Breaker Functions:

Short circuits, frequently arising due to insulation damage, represent a notable hazard to
electrical systems. Circuit breakers, with their ability to detect and address short circuits,
serve as a vital line of defense against potential dangers.

 Manual Operation and Isolation:

In addition to their automatic features, circuit breakers offer manual operation, facilitating
the isolation of circuits. This manual control is crucial, especially before conducting
maintenance on electrical systems.

 Application:
Examining the practical uses of switchboards, power circuits, and circuit breakers reveals
their utmost importance in upholding electrical safety within buildings. Whether in residential
areas or industrial complexes, these components play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth
functioning of electrical infrastructure.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the interdependence of switchboards, power circuits, and circuit breakers
shapes the terrain of electrical safety within buildings. As we traverse the complex network of
mains AC circuits, the significance of these elements becomes more evident, guaranteeing not
just functionality but, crucially, the protection of lives and property.
Homework 3: Using active reading strategies
Printed and integrated circuits:

The circuits in electrical appliances are often printed circuits, on printed circuit boards
(PCBs). These are populated with (fitted with) electrical components. Many appliances also
contain small, complex integrated circuits- often called microchips (or chips)- made from
silicon wafers (very thin pieces of silicon). They act as semiconductors, which can be
positively charged at certain points on their surface and negatively charged at other points.
This principale is used to make very small circuits.

Exploring the World of Printed and Integrated Circuits in Electrical

Appliances

Introduction:
Within the complex domain of electrical devices, the circuits governing their operations
frequently manifest as printed circuits on printed circuit boards (PCBs). Moreover, these
devices incorporate small yet intricate integrated circuits, commonly known as microchips.
This conversation explores the importance of printed circuits and the integration of
microchips in shaping the landscape of contemporary electronic devices.

 Printed Circuits and PCBs:

Printed circuits, situated on printed circuit boards (PCBs), act as the fundamental framework
for electrical appliances. Meticulously designed and arranged on PCBs, these circuits offer a
compact and efficient method of connecting diverse electrical components. Employing printed
circuits not only streamlines the manufacturing process but also enhances the overall design
flexibility of appliances.

 Integration of Electrical Components:

Printed circuit boards (PCBs) host a variety of electrical components, each fulfilling a
distinct role in the appliance's functionality. Whether it's resistors or capacitors, the
incorporation of these components onto printed circuits is vital for the smooth operation of
electrical devices. This integration not only guarantees proper functioning but also adds to the
overall durability of the appliance.

 Microchips and Silicon Wafers:

Microchips, commonly referred to as chips, are crucial elements present in numerous
electrical appliances. Fabricated from thin slices of silicon called silicon wafers, these chips
leverage the distinctive properties of silicon as semiconductors, playing a vital role in the
miniaturization and efficiency of electronic circuits.
  Semiconductor Principles:
The semiconducting property of microchips enables the control of positive and negative
charges on their surfaces. This principle serves as the basis for constructing extremely
compact circuits within the microchip. Grasping the role of microchips as semiconductors
offers insights into the intricate realm of electronic circuitry.

 Application:
Exploring the practical uses of printed circuits and microchips reveals their ubiquity in
everyday life. Whether in household appliances or advanced electronic devices, the
incorporation of these technologies has resulted in more streamlined, efficient, and advanced
electrical systems.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the marriage of printed circuits and microchips has revolutionized the
landscape of electrical appliances. From the intricacies of PCB design to the semiconductor
principles governing microchips, these components play a pivotal role in advancing
thecapabilities and functionality of modern electronic devices
Homework 4: Using active reading strategies
Electrical & electronic components:

Various electrical and electronic components exist, and they can be employed individually
or in combination to execute diverse tasks. For instance:

- Sensors or detectors can perceive or identify levels or changes in values like

temperature, pressure, and light.
- Control systems utilize feedback from sensors to automatically regulate devices. For
instance, servomechanisms, which are electrically powered mechanisms, can
automatically control mechanical devices like water valves based on signals from
sensors.
- Logic gates play a significant role in control systems by sending signals, typically low
voltages, to other devices. The output signal from a logic gate switches on or off
depending on the input signals it receives.

Unveiling the Diversity of Electrical and Electronic Components

Introduction:
In the intricate realm of technology, the extensive array of electrical and electronic
components serves as the foundational elements for innovation. This exploration delves into
the versatility of these components, highlighting their capacity to function independently or
collaboratively to accomplish diverse tasks.

 Sensors and Detectors:

Sensors and detectors, the silent observers of the technological landscape, possess the
remarkable ability to sense and detect changes in various parameters. Whether monitoring
temperature, pressure, or light, these components play a pivotal role in countless applications.
From environmental monitoring to industrial processes, sensors are the unsung heroes of
modern technology.

 Control Systems and Feedback:

Control systems, orchestrators of automation, rely on feedback from sensors to navigate the
complexities of dynamic environments. A prime example is the servomechanism, an
electrically powered mechanism that responds to signals from sensors to automatically adjust
devices like water valves. This integration of feedback and control systems exemplifies the
marriage of electrical power and mechanical functionality.
  Logic Gates in Control Systems:
Logic gates, the decision-makers in the realm of control systems, send signals, often in the
form of low voltages, to orchestrate the actions of other devices. Their ability to switch an
output signal on or off, contingent on the input signals they receive, forms the backbone of
decision-making processes in automated systems. Logic gates are the architects of efficient
and logical control.

 Application:
The real-world applications of these electrical and electronic components are both diverse
and impactful. From smart homes utilizing sensors for energy efficiency to industrial
processes benefiting from the precision of control systems, these components collectively
drive the engine of technological progress. The synergy of sensors, control systems, and logic
gates is a testament to the transformative power of automation.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the kaleidoscope of electrical and electronic components unveils a world of
possibilities. From the subtle detection abilities of sensors to the decision-making prowess of
logic gates, these components are the unsung heroes behind the curtain of modern technology.
Their integration not only enhances efficiency but also paves the way for continuous
innovation and automation.