When designing an electrical installation, we must pay attention to a number of aspects so that the entire system works properly. The way in which the circuit elements are connected is especially important here, as it has a key impact on what is most important - the current intensity, voltage and the overall functionality of the entire system. We distinguish between series and parallel connections. What are the differences between them? Which solution should you choose?
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In what installations will a serial connection work?
Let's start with a series connection, in which - as the name suggests - the circuit elements are connected one behind the other. This arrangement works particularly well in installations where it is important to maintain the same current intensity throughout the circuit. In such a connection, the current flowing through each element is the same, which is why this solution is often used in systems where the most important thing is to load each component evenly. Such are, for example, measuring systems.
Here, precisely controlled current flow is essential for the correct operation of the meters. Series connection is also used in simple lighting installations, for example, series-connected bulbs in garlands. This is because the current flow is the same in each bulb. Logical? Absolutely, but it should be borne in mind that if one element of the series circuit burns out, the entire installation will react to it - it will simply stop working.
Parallel connection. Application locations
Parallel connection occurs when circuit elements are connected to the same two points. This solution is commonly used in installations, especially where independent operation of individual current receivers is required. Receivers, e.g. light bulbs, receive full supply voltage, so that in the event of a burnout of one element, nothing happens to the others.
As you can see, it is completely different from the case of a series connection. It is no coincidence that parallel-connected installations are commonly used in homes, especially in lighting, because it is here that voltage stability is essential for the correct functioning of devices. In systems where fuses play an important role, it is extremely important that the failure of one circuit does not have a negative impact on the entire installation. This is why parallel connections are also preferred here.
Another place where parallel installations are useful is in battery systems, because in parallel connection the batteries have a greater capacity without changing the voltage. This makes it possible to operate devices powered by this energy source for longer.
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Series connection and current voltage in the electrical installation
As we already know, a series connection has a huge impact on how the voltage is distributed in an electrical installation. We also learned that in such a system, the circuit consists of elements connected one after another, so the current flows through each of them in turn. So we have to remember about the voltage, which is distributed proportionally to the resistance of each element in the series connection. Let's take an example of a circuit to which we connect several resistors. In such a series connection of resistors, each of them will affect the whole, lowering the voltage by a certain value, which depends on its resistance. This has its advantages and disadvantages of a series connection, and everything depends on the requirements of a given installation.
Where a gradual voltage reduction is needed, for example in dividing resistors, the use of a series connection works perfectly. However, in more complex systems, where the situation with the voltage is different, because it should be stable, elements connected in series can lead to undesirable voltage drops. So if you do not know which solution is best in a given situation, calculate the intensity of the current flowing or - even better - ask an electrician for advice.
Parallel connection and voltage and current
We have already learned the general principle of the parallel connection, now it's time to get down to specifics, comparing them with voltage and current intensity. As you know, a parallel connection in electrical installations is equal to the supply voltage, regardless of the number of connected receivers. Thanks to this, each of them (light bulb, resistor, etc.) can operate at the same voltage, which ensures stable operation of the devices. Elements connected in parallel make the total current intensity in the circuit the sum of the currents flowing through the individual branches. This means de facto that the more of these elements connected in parallel, the greater the current intensity in the main circuit.
This affects the load on the installation, because if the current is too high, it can lead to overloading of the wires or tripping of fuses. This shows that in parallel connection it is most important to maintain a constant voltage, which is why it should be used in such systems. Electricians must therefore take this into account when designing, avoiding overloading the circuit.
Which connection method should I choose: parallel or series?
Series and parallel connections are of great importance for the correct operation of the entire electrical installation, but sometimes it is better to choose one solution, and sometimes the other. When? Which method is better?
Everything really depends on the specifics of a given installation and its requirements. A series connection is best where the same current intensity is necessary in each element of the circuit. It works well in simple lighting systems, as well as measuring systems. A big disadvantage of this solution is that the voltage drop on individual elements occurs throughout the entire circuit, interrupting the operation of the entire circuit.
In the case of parallel connection, the most important thing is to maintain a constant voltage on each receiver, which is why this solution is commonly chosen for designing home installations. Here, the failure of one receiver does not affect the operation of the others, but you must pay attention to the total current intensity, because it increases with the number of receivers.
These are the key differences between series and parallel connections. As we can see, they are so large that we must always take them into account when designing electrical installations.
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