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Electronics and Safety. Scarlett, Dash, Sam, Ashley, and Eric. Circuit Terms. Circuit- complete path of electric current Voltage- Potential difference Current- rate of flow of charge, electrons moving along a conductor. DC vs. AC. Direct Current- electrons flow in a
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Electronics and Safety Scarlett, Dash, Sam, Ashley, and Eric
Circuit Terms • Circuit- complete path of electric current • Voltage- Potential difference • Current- rate of flow of charge, electrons moving along a conductor
DC vs. AC • Direct Current- electrons flow in a straight line (or forward) • Alternating Current (AC)- electrons keep switching directions • In the US, AC is generated at 60 Hz, meaning it alternates 60 times per second
Resistance • Contains two terminals and a semiconductor • Carbon • Ceramic • Size • Width • Length
Grounding • Limits static electricity • A direct contact to the Earth • The Earth’s voltage is zero • Most AC current
Grounding in portable devices • “A reference point in a circuit from which all other voltages are measured” • Ground plane • Conductive surface • Near power source
How Dangerous is Electricity? • Depends on current, voltage, and time exposed • DC current • 300 mA is fatal
How Dangerous is Electricity? • AC current • In normal household outlets, 120 V • 1 mA can be felt • 5 mA is painful • Above 15 mA, can lose muscle control, fibrillation • 70 mA can cause life-threatening irregular heart rhythms
How to Protect Yourself • Soldering • Unplug and turn off soldering iron when not using it • Use the wiring stand when using it • Don’t just put down on the table • Clean off the soldering iron after use
How to Protect Yourself • Batteries • Contains acid; can burn eyes, skin, and clothing • If visibly damaged; don’t use it • Careful not to short out battery terminals
How to Protect Yourself • Unplug your circuit from your power source • When plugging it back in make sure everyone working on the circuit is aware • Watch for any exposed metal or wire • Use electrical tape • Double check your circuit • Using incorrect resistors can be dangerous