20 Electrical Devices and Their Functions, For Home and Office

Electrical equipment is incredibly useful because it allows us to enjoy a comfortable life in our daily activities. Despite frequent interactions with various electrical devices, many people are still unaware of their names and functions. Each electrical device has a different task, and each is important for the safety and efficiency of electricity use at home.

By understanding the types and functions of electrical equipment, you can identify and address potential issues in the electrical system that might be triggered by these devices. Here are 20 essential electrical devices, complete with their functions, that you should know.

20 Electrical Devices and Their Functions

1. Switch 

A switch is a device used to turn the electrical flow to a device or light on or off. Typically found on room walls, a switch allows users to easily control electrical devices. It works by opening or closing an electrical circuit. When the switch is "on," the circuit connects, allowing electricity to flow to the device. Conversely, when the switch is "off," the circuit is disconnected, stopping the electrical flow.

2. Socket 

A socket is used to connect electrical devices to a power source. Usually installed in the wall, it can accommodate one or more plugs. The socket provides the electrical flow from the home's electrical system to devices using a plug. By plugging into the socket, electricity flows, allowing the device to function.

3. Plug 

A plug is the part of an electrical device that connects to a socket to allow the flow of electricity. A plug typically has two or three pins that fit into the socket holes. These pins connect to the electrical cables of the device, enabling electricity to flow to the device when the plug is connected to the socket.

4. Cable 

A cable is an electrical conductor that transfers energy from one point to another. It consists of a conductor covered with insulation. Cables transmit electrical flow from the source (such as an electrical panel) to the devices that need it. The insulation on the cable prevents electrical leakage and protects the cable from damage.

5. MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) 

An MCB is a safety device that cuts off electrical flow when there is an overcurrent or short circuit. The MCB automatically disconnects the electrical flow if the current exceeds safe limits, preventing fires or damage to electrical devices.

6. Electric Meter (KWH Meter) 

An electric meter, or KWH Meter, measures the amount of electrical energy used in kilowatt-hours (kWh). It also records the total energy consumption over time, which is used to calculate the monthly electricity bill.

7. Electrical Panel 

An electrical panel, also known as a distribution panel, distributes electrical flow to various circuits in the home or building. It contains MCBs and fuses that control and protect different circuits. The panel receives electrical flow from the utility company and distributes it to various circuits as needed.

8. Fuse 

A fuse is a device that protects electrical circuits from damage caused by overcurrent or overload. It contains a thin wire that will break if the electrical current exceeds a certain limit, disconnecting the circuit and preventing further damage or fire.

9. Extension Cord 

An extension cord functions like a socket but is more flexible because it is not installed in the wall. It provides a safe electrical connection for multiple devices simultaneously and usually has a separate long cable that can be moved around.

10. Junction Box 

A junction box is a box used to connect multiple electrical cables and protect those connections from damage and hazards. It contains terminals or connectors inside where cables are joined. The junction box protects electrical connections from dust, moisture, and damage, ensuring the connections are safe.

11. Grounding 

Grounding is a safety system that diverts excess electrical current to the ground to protect devices and occupants from electrical surges. It connects certain parts of the electrical system, such as device casings, to the ground via a grounding cable. If a leakage current or insulation failure occurs, the current is diverted to the ground, making it safer.

12. Lamp and Lamp Fittings 

A lamp is a source of light, while lamp fittings are the holders or places that secure the lamp and connect it to the power source. Lamp fittings ensure the light bulb is safely installed.

13. Test Pen 

A test pen is a simple tool used to check whether there is electrical flow at a particular point. It works by detecting the presence of current through contact with a conductive material. If electricity is present, an indicator light on the test pen will show a signal, allowing you to know if there is a live electrical connection.

14. Generator 

A generator, or genset, produces backup electricity when the main supply from the utility company is interrupted. It uses a combustion engine to drive a generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. Generators are typically used as an emergency power source for homes, offices, or other critical facilities.

15. Transformer 

A transformer is used to increase or decrease electrical voltage in a system. It works on the principle of electromagnetic induction, where the current flowing through the primary coil generates a magnetic field that then induces current in the secondary coil, allowing the voltage to be adjusted as needed.

16. Conduit 

A conduit protects electrical cables from damage and ensures the cables are securely and neatly installed. It provides a protective pathway for cables, shielding them from abrasion, moisture, and chemicals. With a conduit, cable installation and maintenance can be easily performed.

17. Lightning Arrester 

A lightning arrester protects buildings from lightning strikes by diverting the electrical surge to the ground. The system consists of a metal rod installed on the roof and conductive cables connecting it to the ground. When lightning strikes, the arrester directs the surge to the ground.

18. Stabilizer 

A stabilizer maintains stable electrical voltage, preventing fluctuations that can damage electronic devices. It detects voltage fluctuations in the electrical system and adjusts them to keep the output voltage at a stable and safe level. This prevents damage to devices from voltage surges or drops.

19. Terminal Block 

A terminal block is used to connect multiple electrical cables in one place safely and orderly. It has rows of connectors where cables are joined and secured. Terminal blocks facilitate cable connection maintenance in electrical systems.

20. Contactor and Relay 

Contactors and relays are devices used to control electrical flow in circuits, often used to activate or deactivate automatic equipment. A contactor is an automatic switch that controls the electrical flow to heavy equipment, while a relay is a small switch used to control electrical circuits with a small control signal. Both devices support automatic control and circuit protection.

Where to Find Complete Electrical Equipment

If you are looking for a place to find the most complete and high-quality electrical equipment, now is the time to contact Mitra Cipta Elektrindo or visit Hokione.id, an e-commerce platform for electrical tools that makes shopping easier to meet your home electrical needs. Here, you can find all kinds of electrical equipment, from switches and sockets, MCBs, and plugs, to large electrical devices like UPS and inverters, from various international electrical brands tested for quality and safety.

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