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What Exactly Is a Voltage Drop?

What Exactly Is a Voltage Drop?

Often the concept of voltage drop or voltage difference in circuits is taught without much explanation as to how or why volts drop. This article explores volts, including characteristics and the laws that govern them.


An Introduction to Parallel Circuits for Industrial Engineers

An Introduction to Parallel Circuits for Industrial Engineers

Learn to discern between textbook and real-life scenarios and use consistent troubleshooting methods to simplify and correct errors in parallel circuits common in industrial control systems.


The Difference Between Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Soft Starters

The Difference Between Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) and Soft Starters

The following will examine how to reduce the wear on motors during startup and compare soft starters and variable frequency drives (VFDs). 


How to Identify and Troubleshoot Power and Ground Side Circuits

How to Identify and Troubleshoot Power and Ground Side Circuits

This article introduces a few simple methods to test which type of circuits — whether ground- or power-switched — are being used and how to troubleshoot and properly fix issues.


Wet vs. Dry Contacts: Knowing the Difference

Wet vs. Dry Contacts: Knowing the Difference

Wiring design systems can become confusing when some switching devices send power to the load automatically while others do not. Often called ‘wet’ and ‘dry’ contacts, these devices are fairly easy to troubleshoot once the differences are understood.


Grounding DC Power Supplies: What You Need to Know

Grounding DC Power Supplies: What You Need to Know

Should you connect a DC power supply to ground or not? The answer is not a straightforward yes or no. This article explores the benefits and drawbacks of grounding DC power supplies.


Grounding for Signal Conditioning

Grounding for Signal Conditioning

Grounding electrical systems can lead to problems with interference and noise, affecting signal clarity. This article looks at these problems and how to avoid them.