Electrical terms can be a bit confusing when it comes to reviewing a quote or talking to an electrician. You may not understand all the terms we are talking about. Below is a little list of common electrical terms you may come across and their definitions:
Adapter – A cord or block style device with different ends that allows different devices to connect.
Amperage – Measurement of the flow rate of electricity.
Cable – A set of wires, usually encased in an outer protective jacket.
Conductor – The internal material of a cord that conducts electricity.
Connector – A female cord mounted wiring device with the conducting elements recessed behind the mating service. Connectors are wired to the source of power.
Current – The rate of flow of electrical energy through a conductor or wire.
Fuse – A safety device consisting of a strip of wire that melts and breaks an electric circuit if the current exceeds a safe level.
Ground – A connection between an electrical device and the earth or at the voltage defined as zero.
Inlet – A male flange mounted wiring device with the conducting pins protruding and exposed.
Jacket – Outer material layer of a cord.
Pigtail – A very short patch cable or wiring adapter.
Plug – A male cord mounted wiring device with the conducting pins protruding and exposed.
Receptacle – A female flange mounted wiring device with the conducting elements recessed behind the mating surface.
Stripping – The designation of the removal of the insulation or jacket from a conductor/wire
Voltage – The force or “push” driving electrical energy through a conductor or wire that can be compared to the pressure of water in a pipe.
Watt – The force or “push” driving electrical energy through a conductor or wire that can be compared to the pressure of water in a pipe.
If there is anything you don’t understand on your quote, invoice, or what the electrician is saying feel free to ask us and we’d be more than happy to explain. Remember we are your electrical connection.
Reference: http://www.dsmt.com/resources/glossary/
