Electrical component
An electrical component is a basic, discrete device that is often connected with others, to fulfil the requirements of a circuit.
In an electrical system, such as that which forms the electrical installation of a building, electrical components comprise items provided in a mains circuit such as switching devices, like switches and isolators, protection devices such as circuit breakers and fuses, and wiring connections.
BS 7671 (IET Wiring Regulations) does not specifically recognise or make use of the word ‘component’ in this sense, preferring instead the official term electrical equipment.
It is in the field of electronics, as opposed to buildings, where the term 'electrical component’ is more widely used.
In an electronic circuit, various components will be encountered, which generally fall under one of two categories:
- Active components – these would comprise transistors, integrated circuits (ICs), diodes and thermionic valves.
- Passive components – these would comprise capacitors, resistors and inductors.
As far as buildings are concerned, these components would be found within electrical and electronic equipment that itself would form part of the building’s electrical system.
--ECA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Articles about electricity.
- Competition and the independent electric wholesalers.
- Component.
- Consumer electronics.
- Consumer units.
- ECA articles.
- ECA.
- Electrical appliance.
- Electrical consumption.
- Electrical energy.
- Electrical equipment.
- Electrical installation.
- Electrical power.
- Electrical safety.
- Electrician.
- Electricity supply.
- Glossary of electrical terms.
- IET Wiring Regulations.
Featured articles and news
Shortage of high-quality data threatening the AI boom
And other fundamental issues highlighted by the Open Data Institute.
Data centres top the list of growth opportunities
In robust, yet heterogenous world BACS market.
Increased funding for BSR announced
Within plans for next generation of new towns.
New Towns Taskforce interim policy statement
With initial reactions to the 6 month policy update.
Heritage, industry and slavery
Interpretation must tell the story accurately.
PM announces Building safety and fire move to MHCLG
Following recommendations of the Grenfell Inquiry report.
Conserving the ruins of a great Elizabethan country house.
BSRIA European air conditioning market update 2024
Highs, lows and discrepancy rates in the annual demand.
50 years celebrating the ECA Apprenticeship Awards
As SMEs say the 10 years of the Apprenticeship Levy has failed them.
Nominations sought for CIOB awards
Celebrating construction excellence in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
EPC consultation in context: NCM, SAP, SBEM and HEM
One week to respond to the consultation on reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings framework.
CIAT Celebrates 60 years of Architectural Technology
Find out more #CIAT60 social media takeover.
The BPF urges Chancellor for additional BSR resources
To remove barriers and bottlenecks which delay projects.
Flexibility over requirements to boost apprentice numbers
English, maths and minimumun duration requirements reduced for a 10,000 gain.
A long term view on European heating markets
BSRIA HVAC 2032 Study.
Humidity resilience strategies for home design
Frequency of extreme humidity events is increasing.
National Apprenticeship Week 2025
Skills for life : 10-16 February