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
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.
AI and automation in 3D modelling and spatial design
Can almost half of design development tasks be automated?
Minister quizzed, as responsibility transfers to MHCLG and BSR publishes new building control guidance.
UK environmental regulations reform 2025
Amid wider new approaches to ensure regulators and regulation support growth.
The maintenance challenge of tenements.
BSRIA Statutory Compliance Inspection Checklist
BG80/2025 now significantly updated to include requirements related to important changes in legislation.