5.1: Electrical systems
An electrical system has two main conditions: it is closed or it is open. Closed means the circuit is complete and conducting. Open means the circuit is incomplete and no current flows.
There are different electrical systems, identified by voltage. The term low voltage is relative and its definition varies by context. The Canadian Electrical Code defines low voltage as from 31 V to 750 V and systems operating at 30 volts or less.
Automotive systems normally use direct current and are rated up to 24 volts. Residential alternating current voltage may be 120 or 240 volts. Lighting and small appliances normally use 120 volts. Clothes dryers, stoves, and ovens use 240 volts. Shop equipment also uses either 120 or 240 volts. Most hand-held electric tools and many shop tools use 120 volts or battery power. Some equipment, such as electric welders, use 240 volts.