Learners follow the steps for reducing all of the elements of a complex circuit to a single current source and a single source resistance to create a simple circuit. Several examples are given for dc circuits. The conversion between Thevenin and Norton is also presented.
Learners read how the transfer function for a RC low pass filter is developed. The transfer function is used in Excel to graph the Vout. The circuit is also simulated in Electronic WorkBench and the resulting Bode plot is compared to the graph from Excel.
In this interactive object, learners solve for total resistance and current, the current through each resistor, the voltage across each resistor, and the power dissipated.
Learners examine the operation of five pneumatic animated circuits that use directional control valves, pilot lines, check valves, needle valves, and cylinders.
How Adding Parallel Branches Increases Total Current
In this animated object, learners follow an analogy of water flowing through pipes and valves to see how current increases in a parallel circuit as branches are added.
In this animated and interactive object, learners examine how changes in applied voltage affect the current and voltages in a zener diode voltage regulation circuit. A short assessment completes the activity.
In this interactive learning object, students view the ammeter connections for measuring currents in a parallel circuit with three branches on an energy concepts lab board. A brief quiz completes the activity.