INTRODUCTION

To utilize electric power for various fixtures (bulbs, CFL, Tube light, Fan, Refrigerator,
geyser, Kitchen appliances, water purifier, washing machine etc) wiring system is required.
The design and planning of an electrical installation involve many conditions as per the
requirement of the consumer. It should fulfill functional, aesthetics and safety needs.
Electrical wiring is a safe and controlled path of current flow from supply to appliances. For
the path we use a conductor with protective safe insulation covering. For control and
appliance connection we use switches and accessories. In this video we will study how the
household wiring is done and what materials are essential for domestic wiring.

Conductor materials of Electrical wire are made of copper, aluminium and galvanized iron.
We know that silver is the best conductor but it is too expensive. We mostly use copper and
aluminium as wiring conductor and GI wire is used for economic earthing.

(a) Copper
In pure form Cu is reddish brown and soft and impurities change its color to golden
yellow and make it hard. It is a good conductor of electricity.Its conductivity is around
1.5 times of Aluminum. For the same current carrying capacity Cu wire has smaller
cross-section size. Copper conductors are available in both solid and multi strands (group
of many fine wires in contact with each other) form. For domestic wiring for small
current applications we use flexible multi strand insulated Cu wire cables. Cu is strong,
can be twisted, joints have good life and better contact. It is used in general wiring and
cable making. Standard size are 1.5,2.5,4,6,10,16,25,35,50,70,95,120 sqmm

(b) Aluminium is light weight and cheaper in comparison to copper. It is silvery–white in

colour. Aluminum is mechanically inferior to copper, its contact create problem so
avoided in internal wiring. It is mostly used in economic wiring or main power cables or
overhead lines.
Insulating Materials

All conductors in wires and cables have some sort of insulation and/or sheathing of polyvinyl
chloride (PVC). PVC is weather resistant and has high electrical insulation to withstand the
working voltage. The additional sheathing and/ or armouring is added to protect the insulated
conductors from mechanical damage. A PVC-sheathed steel wire armoured (s.w.a.) cable
would be used for running underground for house services.
CONDUIT

Wiring Accessories Wiring accessories are used for connecting appliances

Phenol-formaldehydes and urea-aldehyde are thermosetting polymers and are used with other
compounds to manufacture swich, plug tops, socket outlets, etc.,

(a) Switch A switch is used to make or break an electrical circuit. It is used to switch ‘on’ or
‘off ’ the supply of electricity to an appliance. There are various switches such as

 surface switch
 flush switch
 pull switch
  push button switch
 bed switch

(i) Surface switch: It is mounted on mica, PVC boards fixed on the surface of a wall. It is of
three types 1. One-way switch 2. Two-way switch 3. Intermediate switch

(i) Flush switch: It used for decorative purpose. It can improve interior and give
aesthetic look.

(ii) Bed switch: As the name indicates, it is used to switch ‘on’ the light from any place,
other than switch board usually apposition near the bed. This switch is connected through a
flexible wire.

Intermediate switch: It is used to control a lamp from more than two locations, only large go-
down uses it.

A simple light switch types might need only one pole and one throw, but SPST switch could
take many forms: A pull chain, pushbutton, rocker, rotary, slide, toggle, and the familiar wall
piano or flush modular are all common
 (e) Main switch To control the electrical circuit a main switch is used. Through the main
switch, the power in a building is controlled completely .

The switch is an electrical device that is used to break or make an electrical circuit manually
or automatically. The working principle of switch depends on ON / OFF mechanism.
Technically switch is specified by two essential components such as pole and through.

Pole is the number of circuits, which are controlled by a switch. It may be single pole, double
pole and three pole switch. Single pole (SP) switch controls only one electrical circuit.
Double pole (DP) switch controls two independent circuits and a triple pole (TP) switch
controls three independent circuits..

Whereas, throws of a switch is defined as the number of position that the switch can adopt. A
single throw switch consists of one pair of contacts like open or close. A double throw switch
includes a contact, which can be connected to two other contacts.

When the switch is activated, then the current flows through between the two terminals of the
switch. The closed contact should not overheat or weld when carry appliance current or rated
current i.e. 6 A, 16A.

When the switch is OFF, then the current doesn’t flow between the two terminals of the
switch, and switch should withstand all voltage across its open terminals. 250V

The types of switches used in domestic wiring are classified as

 SPST (Single Pole Single throw), simple one way switch

The SPST switch has two terminal, one terminal is used as input and other terminal is used
as outputs. A single-pole switch controls one fixture from a single location. These
switches is the easiest to operate, install and replace. The switch shall be ‘On’ or
closed when the knob is down.
 SPDT (single pole double throw), our two way switch

The SPDT switch is a three terminal switch, one terminal is used as input and remaining two
terminals are used as outputs. It is used to divert the flow of current to either of two
directions. SPDT or a two way switch can control two fixture from a single location or
two such switch can control one fixture from two location, as in stair case wiring.
These switches are is the bit difficult to install and replace.

 DPST (double pole, single throw) Single phase main switch or Isolator
DPST is abbreviation for double pole, single throw. A DPST switch has four terminals: two inputs and
two outputs. Double pole means that the unit contains two identical switches, side by side, and
operated by one single toggle or lever. This means that two separate circuits are at a time controlled
through one push so that current interruption capacity get doubled. Main switch To control the
electrical circuit a main switch is used. Through the main switch, the power in a building is
controlled completely .






 TPST (triple pole single throw) Three phase main switch or Isolator

 TPST is abbreviation for triple pole, single throw. A TPST switch has six terminals:
three inputs and three outputs. It can separate three phase supply from circuits through
one push.

•   Intermediate switch: It is used to control a lamp from more than two locations, only
large go-down uses it.
 •  

Switchboards are to be located in common areas like corridors, lobby etc. and not
to be located in locked room. Switchboard shall be located only in dry situation and in well-
ventilated space. They shall not be placed in the vicinity of storage battery or exposed to
chemical fume.

. 

Switch prices and build quality can vary dramatically. The simplest, cheapest switches can
cost only 10 to 20 Rupees while designer switch can cost hundreds a piece. Modular design
switches are available in many textures, finishes, colors, designs and combinations . They are
carefully crafted using high-quality polycarbonate (a type of thermoplastic polymer) , flame-
retardant material, infused with enhanced safety and aesthetic range with noise-free and soft-to-
operate mechanism. Switches actually play an important role in safety, utility and of course,
aesthetics of any given place.

Quality can be hard to judge but an industry-standard certification ISI will ensure that a given
switch meets certain minimum guidelines prescribed.
A switch’s construction is of the utmost importance. What it’s made out of and how it’s
assembled will determine whether or not a switch is suitable for a given application.

Contact and terminal made of proper section with copper alloy like brass and silver platted
can affect the switch’s responsiveness, reliability, and cost. Good mechanism and rocker arm
movement of contact decide number of switching operations for which the device is rated.

Switch Box
(i) Switch box of galvanized iron or PVC, factory fabricated, suitable in size for surface/
recess mounting and suitable in size for accommodating the required number of switches and
accessories. A 3 mm thick synthetic phenolic resin bonded laminated sheets of approved
shade shall be used for switch box covers.
All accessories like switches, socket outlets, call bell pushes and regulators shall be fixed in
flush pattern inside the switch/regulator boxes. The switch box/regulator box shall normally
be mounted with their bottom 1.25 m from floor level.

Accessories like ceiling roses, brackets, batten holders etc.

SOCKETS

Socket – An electrical socket is a device that allows electrical equipments to be connected to

the primary power supply in a building. The sockets may differ in voltage and current rating,
shape, size and type of connectors. Generally, socket outlets of modular type shall be 6A 3
pin, 16 Amp 3 pin or 16/6 Amp 6 pin. The third pin (made thicker and longer) shall be
connected to earth through protective (loop earthing) conductor. So Sockets of 2 pin and 5
pin outlets will not be permitted.

Conductors connecting electrical appliances with socket outlets shall be of flexible type with
an earthing conductor for connection to the earth terminal of plug and the metallic body of
the electrical appliance. Only 3 core flexible cables shall be used for connecting single-phase
appliances.

Kitchen – 23 cm above working platform and away from the likely positions of stove and
sink.
(c) Bathroom – No socket outlet is permitted for connecting a portable appliance there to.
MCB/IC switch may be provided above 2 m for fixed appliances, and at least 1 m away from
shower.
(d) Rooms in residences – 23 cm above floor level, or any other level in special cases as
desired by the Engineer-in-charge.
(vii) Unless and otherwise specified, the control switches for the 6A and 16A socket outlets
shall be kept along with the socket outlets.

(b) Holders A holder is used to fix and use light bulbs. They are of two types.

1. Pendant holder 2. Batten holder

(c) Ceiling rose It is used to provide a tapping to the any nearby appliances through the
flexible wire or a connection to a fluorescent tube.

(d) Socket outlet/plug The socket outlet has an insulated base with the moulded or socket
base having three terminal sleeves.

SUPPORT MODULE
Dimmer/ Fan Regulator  – A dimmer enables you to adjust voltage levels in 4-5 stepped
place. Dimmers are actually helpful in reducing the brightness or speed of ceiling fan.
Dimmers are easy to operate and install. They help in saving energy.

Motor Starter Switch – A motor starter switch is a manual motor controller whose contact
mechanism is activated by a mechanical linkage from a toggle handle or push button. As per
the load requirements, these motor starter switches are available in the current ratings of 20A,
25A and 32A respectively. These are easy to use, install and replace.

Power Unit – A power unit is actually a combination of socket and switch. It is, more often
than not, used for connecting heavy-load electrical equipments to the power supply in a
building. These are available in different current ratings of 20A, 25A and 32A respectively.
Power units are easy to install and operate.

COMMUNICATION MODULE

Telephone Socket or RJ11 Jack – A telephone socket, also called Registered Jack-11 (RJ11),
is basically a device that enables the telephone to be connected to the main
telecommunication provider line in a building. These sockets are a little difficult to install
though easy to operate.

Data Socket or RJ45 Jack – A data socket, also known as RJ45 Jack, is basically a device that
enables networking, where you connect computers or other network elements like internet
cable. These data sockets are quite complicated to install yet easy to operate.
TV Socket – Like telephone sockets and data sockets, TV sockets enables the connecting of a
television set via aerial flylead to the cable network provider line in a building. These
sockets, again, require a little effort to install, however, are easy to operate.

USB Charger or Socket – Seeing the widespread use of USB ports, these sockets are
dedicated to charging USB enabled devices. The USB sockets are a great way to simplify
device charging by getting rid of the adapters.  These are easy to install and operate.

4. Voltage limits for AC system

The voltage at any point of the system under normal conditions shall not
depart from
the declared voltage by more than the values given below;

• 6% in the case of low (250V or less) or medium (251 to 650 V) voltage

•
•
•

Electrical energy is supplied to consumers from a distribution network of Power Company

through a service feeder or service connection. For service connection one can use overhead
naked wire or insulated cable, but the best practice is to use a armored cable of Aluminum
conductor with PVC insulation and Metal/PVC sheath. For single phase 230V connection we
use a 2 core cable and for 3 phase 400V connection one should use four core cable upto 35
sqmm size and 3&1/2 core cables for higher sizes. The size of cable depends on current
rating or power of connected load. Generally higher conductor size is selected to cover future
expansion in demand.

The size of Al cable conductor is as given in table.

Connected 3 KW 5 KW 7 KW 10 KW 20 KW 30 KW 50 KW
Load 1 ph 3 ph 1 ph 3 Ph 3ph 3ph 3ph
Current A 15 25 35 15 50 18 35 52 90
Al Cable 6 10 16 6 25 10 16 25 35
size sqmm 2core 2core 2core 4core 2core 4core 4core 4core 4core

If cable length is more than 50 mts, higher size should be taken accordingly.

Atypical detail specification of service cable is as :

PVC insulated PVC sheathed Aluminium conductor cables of 650/1100 V Class of size 6/10/16/25
sqmm and 2/or 4 core Aluminum Cable and bear the ISI certification mark.

2. PVC insulated PVC sheathed Aluminium conductor underground cables with steel rope/steel wire
armouring of 1100 V class of size 6/10/16/25 sqmm , 2/or 4 core Aluminum Cable and bear the
ISI certification mark.

The service feeder terminates at the consumer premises via an energy meter at a main switch or
main distribution board. There shall be circuit breaker or a linked switch with fuse
on each live conductor of the supply mains at the point of entry. The main
switch shall be easily accessible and shall be situated near to the
termination of service line. This main board use suitable size Isolator as switch and MCBs as
over current protection. Some installation also has ELCB or RCCBs. The current rating of isolator is
selected one size higher than maximum load current. Standard isolators are available in 2 or 3 or 4
pole configuration with current ratings of 40A, 63A, 100a and 125 A. voltage rating are either 250V
for 2 pole isolator and 415V for 3pole or 4 pole isolator. Terminals accommodate maximum 35 sq
mm cable. Isolator has red as on and green as off indication

Branch distribution board shall be provided with a fuse

or a miniature circuit breaker (MCB) or both of adequate
rating / setting.

In the main distribution board we take circuits to different part of electric

utilities and appliances in the house. Each outgoing circuit shall be
controlled by a circuit breaker/switch with fuse or MCB of
adequate rating / setting. Miniature Circuit Breaker (MCB) is a small, convenient,
sensitive and reliable circuit breakers and are used to control and protect the electrical wiring
and appliances from overloads and short circuits of electric power. Our thermo-magnetic,
current limiting MCBs are available with Type B or C operating characteristics, which provides
magnetic overload and thermal short circuit protection. It can be reset manually and can handle
larger amounts of power. Miniature circuit breakers and their box is smaller in size and
pleasant in look, compared to old IC main switch.
The current rating of MCB is just equal to maximum load current of the circuit. It may be 6A for
general light circuits and 10A, 16A, 20 A for power circuits, depending on the load. MCB must be
connected in phase or live side of supply only. MCB Terminals accommodate maximum 25 sq mm
cable. MCBs are available in ratings 6, 10, 16, 20, 32, 40 and 50A

Terminal size 6-20A - 16mm² cable and 32-50A - 25mm²,

Circuit wiring shall mean the wiring from the distribution board to the 1st tapping point
inside the switch box, from where point wiring starts. Good house wiring has to maintain
declared voltage 230V within 6% voltage rise drop limit at appliances end.
House is divided in several circuits such that problem or fault in appliances
or wiring of one part should not disturb other healthy circuits. Increased
number of circuits will increase this discrimination but at increased cost. As
a practice rule we have light and power circuits in wiring.
Light, call bell, small portable appliances and fans may be wired on a
common circuit. Each such light circuit shall not have more than 800 Watt connected load
or more than 10 points whichever is less. However, in case of LED, CFL points where load
per point may be less, number of points may be suitably increased.
Power sub-circuit shall be designed according to the load. Each power circuit in
residential building can feed following outlets:
(a) 2 Nos. 16A outlets.
(b) 3 Nos. 6A outlets.
(c) 1 No.16A and 2 Nos. 6A outlets.
The load on any low voltage power circuit shall not exceed 3000 Watts.

Wiring shall be done only by the looping system. Phase/live conductors shall be looped at the
switch box. For point wiring, neutral wire/earth wire looping for the 1st point shall be done in
the switch box; and neutral/earth looping of subsequent points will be made from point
outlets.
In wiring, no joints in wiring will be permitted anywhere, except in switch box or point
outlets, where jointing of wires will be allowed with use of suitable connector. There is no
break in the neutral wire except in the form of linked switchgear.
Following color coding shall be followed in wiring:
Live/ Phase : Red/Yellow/Blue’
Neutral : Black\Earth : Yellow/Green.
All conductors shall be of copper or aluminium. Conductor for final sub-
circuit
of fan and light wiring shall have a nominal cross sectional area not less
than 1
Sq. mm copper and 1.5 Sq. mm aluminium. The cross sectional area for
power

wiring shall be not less than 2.5 Sq. mm copper, 4 Sq. mm aluminium.

(f) PVC casing-capping wiring PVC capping is done in order to cover the wires. It includes
casing also. This casing-capping wiring is also known as open wiring, as it is done outside the
wall. Materials required for PVC casing-capping wiring include

1. wire 2. casing enclosures made up of plastic 3. capping made up of plastic 4.

T. Joints VIR (Vulcanised Indian Rubber) or PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) insulated wire

5. junction box 6. elbow 7. casing and capping joints

Wooden casing-capping wiring is old fashioned. Now PVC or VIR insulated wires are
enclosed within the PVC casing enclosure and PVC capping is used to cover the casing.
Advantages of casing-capping wiring

Easy to install

Strong and durable wiring

Customization can be done easily

Safe from smoke, dust, rain and steam, etc.

No risk of shock due to casing and capping,

Disadvantages of PVC casing-capping wiring

Costly Not suitable for humid weather High risk of fire

Crampets are used for securing or fixing conduit in place prior to covering with plaster.
Distance saddles are used to fix surface conduits.

Concealed Wiring It is laborious to install this wiring. The layout of this wiring is done under
the plaster of the wall of the building. Advantages of concealed wiring Safe Better
appearance No risk of fire No risk of damage of cable insulation Safe from
humidity, smoke, steam, etc. No risk of shock Long lasting

Disadvantages of concealed wiring Expensive Installation not easy Not easily

customisable for future use Hard to detect faults

Electrical Circuit

For security and safety and convenience of the residents, adequate indoor lighting, street
lighting, staircase lighting and back lanes of residential blocks should be provided.
All light fittings shall be installed such that the lamp is at a height of 2.4m above floor level,
unless otherwise directed by the user.
Internal TV cabling shall be provided, with two or three suitable outlets with TV cabling.
As a source of power, electricity is used in all aspects of life. Electricity provides the power
for everything from light, ventilation, cooling, heating, cocking, domestic appliances, office
equipment and electric tools. Electrical hazards can causes serious accidents and loss of
property. Many of these accidents can be prevented as they are mainly caused by electricity
users who lack basic safety awareness.
Electric shock
Electric shock refers to the electricity passing through the human body, affecting the normal
function of the heart, lungs and nervous system. Let us understand the electrical
characteristics of the human body. Human body experiences shock due to flow of current
through the body which depends on the voltage applied and impedance offered. If the human
body is properly insulated, with insulated sole shoes and only one hand is touching live
electric part with hand wearing insulated glove, then one can work on safely without any
feeling as leakage current in body is less than 1mA . Dry hands and foot has sufficient
impedance and direct touch of live electrical part by one hand involve small pain or
annoyance but safe let go current of 1 to 8 mA through body. It cause direct physiological
effect, produce tingling sensation and involuntary muscular reactions depart body from
electric part and we call it shock currents. Electric shocks may indirectly lead to accidents,
e.g. falling from heights or other body trauma etc. During an electric shock, the current
passing through the body may lead to deep burns on the skin, muscles or internal organs.

For a normal healthy person a current above this let go limit i. e. about 10 to 30 mA can cause
lack of muscular control, local muscle contraction of the forearm muscles (stopping the
victim as it is), cramping of chest muscles leading to breathing difficult and suffocation,
which can cause unconsciousness and death. If current take a path near heart, it may cause
ventricular fibrillation.
Ventricular fibrillation involves a series of disordered contractions of the heart’s ventricular
muscle fibres, which prevents regular heartbeat. During ventricular fibrillation, external
signal due to electric current disturbs the rhythmic operation of heart. This is known as
ventricular fibrillation or arrhythmic operation of heart.

Body currents above 100 mA may even completely stop the functioning of heart; heart may
stop beating and cause death. Ventricular fibrillation is that condition when the heart beats in
an abnormal and ineffective manner with fatal consequences. Ventricular fibrillation caused
by electricity is the main reason for death from electric shocks. The threshold value of current
for such uncoordinated contractions of the ventricles of the heart is taken as 30mA.
High temperatures caused by currents under abnormal conditions, may result in accidental
fires and explosions. The common causes leading to high temperatures include:
• Overloading of electricity
• Insulator breakdowns or short circuits
• Improper contact of electrical circuit
• Improper maintenance of
electrical appliances or wiring
• Poor ventilation, etc.
Fuse
Normally, a fuse is a copper wiring with a set current fusion value. If the current exceeds the
set fusion value, the fuse will blow and the current is cut-off, thus preventing overloading.
A fuse must be installed on “live” wires. When replacing a fuse, the new fuse must be same
current fusion value as the old one.
8.2 Circuit breakers (MCB)
Circuit breakers are based on the principle of the electromagnetic field. The current entered
may enable the coils of the circuit breaker to magnetize. When the current exceeds the set
value (i.e. overloading), the magnetization intensifies, switching off the circuit breaker and
disconnecting the electric source.

8.3 Earthing
Earthing provides a low resistance way of discharging electricity to the ground in case of
current leakage. This means that during an electric shock, the current passes through the
“earth” wire and is prevented from entering the human body and causing injury.

Earth leakage circuit breaker (ELCB or RCD)

Current leakage protection is also called residual current protection or earthing fault current
protection. Earth leakage circuit breakers monitor the operation of the “neutral” or “live”
wires in the electrical circuit. During an imbalance in the electrical circuit, or when not all the
current flows to the electrical appliance through the “live” wire and returns through the
“neutral” wire, part of the current flows away (leaks) into other sources. The earth leakage
circuit breaker will immediately detect such an imbalance and cut-off the electrical source in
0.4 seconds. Rating of the tripping current shall not exceed 30mA.

If ELCB is not fixed in main circuit box or the worker works in high risk environment (E.g.
humid condition), portable RCD(Residual Current Devices) should be installed to reduce the
chance of getting an electric shock.
Double insulation
An electrical appliance with double insulation is protected by a supplementary insulation
layer in addition to basic insulation. Electrical appliances with double insulation bear the “ “
mark. No earth connection is required for such appliances since double insulation provides
sufficient protection

Safe use of plugs

9.1.1 Specification of electric plugs

In the case of plate earth electrodes, a watering pipe 20 mm dia medium class pipe should be
provided with all attachment as shown in drawing. A funnel with mesh shall be provided on the top
of this pipe for watering the earth. The watering funnel attachment shall be housed in the masonry
enclosure of size 30 cm X 30 cm X 30 cm. A cast iron/ MS frame with MS cover, 6 mm thick, and
having locking arrangement shall be suitably embedded in the masonry enclosure. Earthing
Conductor – In the case of plate earth electrode, the earthing conductor shall be securely
terminated on to the plate with two bolts, nuts, checkouts and washers. The earthing conductor
from the electrode up to the building shall be protected from mechanical injury by a medium class,
20 mm dia GI pipe in the case of wire and by 40 mm dia GI pipes in the case of strip. The protection
pipe in ground shall be buried at least 30 cm deep (to be increased to 60 cm in the case of road
crossing and pavements).The portion within the building should be recessed in walls and floors to
adequate depth in due-co-ordination with the building work. A protective (earth) conductor should
be drawn inside the conduit in all distribution circuits to provide for earthing of non-current carrying
metallic parts of the installation. These should be terminated on the earth terminal in the switch
boxes, and/or earth terminal blocks at the DB’s. Protective conductors of large size which may not
be possible to be carried inside the conduits (as in the case of some sub mains etc.) may be laid
external to the conduits and clamped thereto suitably.

Neutral is earthed at source. In addition to the phase and neutral conductors, an independent
protective earth (PE) conductor connected to the source earth is also run with the supply line.
All the exposed non conductive parts of an installation, e.g., metallic framework, body of
electric machines, main switch, metallic covering of cables and conduits, distribution board,
earth terminal of sockets etc. are connected to this PE conductor via the local earthing
installation, which is the responsibility of the owner of the house. The owner should make
arrangements of his own earthing system with an independent electrode so that there is no
dangerous potential between the exposed and the extraneous conductive parts. The earth fault
loop impedance (EFLI) and the characteristics of the tripping devices are coordinated such
that the faulty circuit is automatically disconnected before there is a persistent touch voltage
at the exposed conductive part over a period of time, causing a shock hazard.

If the disconnecting time is not satisfactory due to large EFLI, supplementary additional
parallel earthing is provided. Alternatively, use of RCDs becomes very relevant in most such
situations.

All appliances which are given connection through the socket outlet e.g., refrigerator,
washing machine, drier machine, table fan etc. should be earthed through earth terminal of
the socket outlet.
A safe grounding system should provide the following:
(i) A means to carry and dissipate electric currents into ground under normal and abnormal
operating conditions so that not only the equipment should remain safe, the continuity of
supply should also be maintained.
(ii) The personnel working on or around the equipment should not experience any electric
shock.

When the human body becomes a part of the electric circuit the current that passes through it,
is limited by the body resistance and the resistance of the earthing system of the device to
which the person comes in contact. The human body resistance differs from person to person
and also it is different when two feet or between one hand and one feet or between two hands.
Generally two types of potentials are important from electric shock point of view. These are
(i) Touch potential and
(ii) Step potential
When a person touches the electrically live part of a device, the potential between the hand
and the foot is known as touch potential.
However the potential between the two feet of the person when walking on an electrically
conducting and live surface is known as step potential. Usually, the step potentials are smaller
in magnitude as compared to the touch potentials.

Some of the safety measures to avoid electric shock are given below :
1. See that all the metallic parts of various equipments and appliances are properly earthed.
2. Before energising the domestic wiring its insulation must be checked.
3. The phase wire must be connected through the switch.
4. Never try to handle or operate any electrical appliances with wet hands or standing on a
wet floor.
5. Make it a habit to switch off the supply and then pull out the plug whenever you have
finished with a particular gadget.

Equipment Earthing” is provided to ensure that the exposed conductive parts in the
installation do not become dangerous by attaining a high touch potential under conditions of
faults. It should also carry the earth fault currents, till clearance by protective devices,
without creating a fire hazard.
The designer of an electrical system has the responsibility to satisfy consumer needs, meet
requirements of standards and to ensure that the equipment and wiring remain protected against
current flows that will produce destructive temperatures above specified rating and design limits.
Overcurrents are caused by equipment overloads, by short circuits or by ground faults.

An overload occurs when equipment is subjected to current above its rated capacity and excessive
heat is produced with prolonged time. The overload occurs because of the
malfunctioning of the equipment or a large number of devices are joint in a
single circuit.

A short circuit occurs when there is a direct but unintended connection between line-to-line or
line-to-neutral or line to ground conductors. Short circuits can generate currents thousands of
times of designated ratings. During the short circuit, the voltage at the fault point
diminishes to zero. SC current produces excessive heat and hence results in
fire or explosion. The short circuit also affects the stability of the network
which disturbs the continuity of the supply.

A ground fault occurs when electrical current flows from a conductor to uninsulated metal that is
not designed to conduct electricity. These leakage can cause electric shock or dangerous currents in
circuit if earthing is provided.
In MCBs we have a combination of thermal (a bimetallic strip) and magnetic (a solenoid) trip
mechanism.

If the circuit is overloaded for a long time, the bimetallic strip becomes
overheated and deformed. This bending deflection of the bimetallic strip
releases a mechanical latch to operate triping mechanism and to open the
miniature circuit breaker contacts.

But during short circuit condition, the current raises suddenly, which need
immediate tripping action. The Magnetic Trip Component is a solenoid that generates
a strong magnetic field by flow of fault current passes through its coil. When the flow
exceeds predetermined levels, the resulting magnetic force is sufficient to move an armature.
The armature plunger strikes the trip lever causing the immediate release
of the latch mechanism consequently open the circuit breaker contacts.

This locks the circuit contacts in the open position.

Miniature circuit breaker construction is very simple, robust and

maintenance-free. A miniature circuit breaker has following constructional
parts. These are:
Frame of Miniature Circuit Breaker
The frame of a miniature circuit breaker is a molded case. This is a rigid,
strong, insulated housing in which the other components are mounted.

The operating mechanism of a miniature circuit breaker provides the

means of manual opening and closing operation of a miniature circuit
breaker. It has three-positions “ON,” “OFF,” and “TRIPPED”. The external
switching latch can be in the “TRIPPED” position if the MCB is tripped due
to over-current.

There are three mechanisms provided in a single miniature circuit breaker

to make it switched off. one bimetallic strip, one trip coil and one-hand
operated on-off lever.

When the moving contact separated from fixed contact, there may be a
high chance of arc. This arc then goes up through the arc runner and enters
into arc splitters and is finally quenched.

When we switch on an MCB, we actually reset the displaced operating

latch to its previous on position and make the MCB ready for another
switch off or trip operation.
Fuses: A fuse is the simplest form of overcurrent protective device. A fuse consists of a conducting
element enclosed in a glass, ceramic or other non-conductive tube and connected by ferrules at
each end of the tube. The ferrules fit into slots at each end to complete a split in a circuit. Excess
current flowing through the fuse melts the device’s conducting element and interrupts current flow.
Fuses are rated by the amperage they can carry before heat melts the element. The fuse is ideal for
protection against short circuits. Short circuits produce enough amperage to vaporize a fuse element
and break connection in one cycle of a 60-cycle system. Fuse can not protect circuit from overloads.
The simplest approach is to conceal the TV wires inside rigid PVC
conduits. This pre-wired system is best and safe to accommodate
multiple wires, including HDMI, Ethernet, and audio cables to run TV
wires inside the wall. Now, connect your equipment directly into the
installed communication modules, jack or connectors, with short
wires or cables.
 Buy quality cable wire, for superior better picture quality.

 Run all connections individually back to the point of origin. 

Instead of splicing into wires in the crawl space or attic, run each hookup back to the same point
where the cable enters the home (otherwise known as the point of origin). It produces better picture
quality and it will be easier to perform repairs.

 Run a wire to every room in the home. Even if you’re not planning on activating cable in every
room, it’s a lot easier, and cheaper, to pre-wire (both TV and telephone) each room than to try to
run cable later.

Today’s modern HD televisions can have several connections where different types of
cables can plug in. The examples are

1. Component Video
Component video cables/wires are easy to identify, as they are three
separate wires – one Red, one Blue, and one Green. Each one of
these sends the corresponding color signal to the TV, providing a sharp
and clear picture. Most newer TVs offer a spot to plug in component
 wires – look for 3 holes in the TV that match up with the colors of the
wires, all in a row.

2. RCA Cables
RCA or RYW cables/wires are actually three different wires bundled into one. The
difference is that these wires come in Red, Yellow and White, rather than Red,
Green and Blue. These wires transmit not only a video signal (on the yellow wire) but
also left and right audio (on the red and white wires). This technology is used in older
TVs.
3. S-Video Cable
Also known as Super Video, this wire transmits a video signal from a device to your
television. It’s an upgrade from Component video wires, and provides pretty good
picture quality, comparable to HDMI. Keep in mind that S-Video only transmits video,
and you’ll need another wire for audio.

4. HDMI Cable
HDMI means = High-Definition Multimedia Interface.
The most common cables/wires now used on HDTVs is the HDMI wire. It allows
transmition of both high-definition video and audio from a device to a television, with
only one wire. It also has the highest capacity, less signal loss, and higher quality.
HDMI wires have a trapezoid-like shape on each end, with tiny pins inside that
connect to the device and the television. 
5. Digital Optical Audio Cable

If you are using a dedicated wire to transmit video – such as Component Video wires or S-
Video – you’ll need something to send the audio signal. Digital Audio Cables, also known as
Optical, provide a high-quality sound signal, almost as good as HDMI. You can also use a
Digital Optical Audio Cable for a soundbar or a surround sound system as they produce the
best sound quality.
Television Signal Wires
1. Coax Cables
TV signal typically comes through a Coax cable. This cable runs from outside the
house, straight into your cable box. It is typically capable of handling a large amount
of information, so you don’t have to worry about signal quality.
2. HD Antennas
Satellite channels comes through the airwaves, you’ll need to connect an antenna.
Our television is capable of accepting an antenna signal through a Set top box or
sometimes without it.

The satellite antenna is often mounted outdoors on the roof or a tower. A coaxial or twin lead
cable is run from the antenna to the location where the television is located. One common type of
cable is designated RG-6 Tri-shield or quad-shield cable. Similar cable is used for distribution of
pay cable TV. The cable is terminated on a television outlets, typically an F connector mounted
on a face plate. If there are multiple outlets, an RF splitter is used to divide the signal among
them; outlets on the splitter are connected to television outlets at each location (living room,
bedrooms, den, for example).
Whilst most TV outlets use the F connector the Television or digital set top box usually come with
a connector known as Belling Lee so the cable used to connect from the TV outlet to the
television will need to have an F connector in one end and a Belling Lee connector at the other
end.
IPTV is television delivered to the home over the Internet. Any device for viewing IPTV must
have an internet connection. This may be a wired connection, or wireless.
Designer recommend installing Category 5 (Cat-5) twisted-pair wire for voice and
data transmissions and RG6 quad shielded coaxial cable for video. Though more
expensive than traditional wiring, these conductors are better able to handle the
demands of high-speed transmissions -- resulting in less interference and clearer
reception.
Category 5 is high-quality wire for voice and data transmission. For data
installations it comes in "twisted pairs," two solid-core insulated wires twisted
together to reduce interference. Cat-5 wire carries data at 100 megabits per second.

RG6 cable vs. RG59 cable -- ('RG' is an old military term for Radio Guide/Grade)
RG6 is enhanced coaxial TV-video cable. It is thicker in conductor size (SWG 18)
and better shielded than the RG59 cable.
In a home, it's important that the electrical system, communication systems, metal
plumbing pipes, metal gas piping and other metallic systems be electrically bonded
together to earthing. It will limits the touch voltage potential and eliminate shock
hazards that could be present during a lightning strike or other electrical anomaly.

F connectors -- These screw-type connectors are used to attach video cable (either
RG59 or RG6) to televisions, VCRs, DVD players, or other video devices.

Sharp bends will damage a cable. Think of wrapping a cable around a coffee can;
coaxial cable should never be bent sharper than that. Use a 90-degree adapter
when a sharp bend is unavoidable, like behind a TV stand.
It's much easier to fish a coaxial cable through a low-voltage box (sometimes called
a “mud ring”) than through a regular electrical box. But that's not the only reason to
use them. Low-voltage boxes allow you to push the extra length of wires into the
wall cavity without over bending
them. 
a TV with a diagonal screen size of at least 25 inches, a video source such as a hi-fi
VCR or DVD player, a surround-sound-equipped stereo receiver, and four or more
speakers.

According to audio-video experts, a movie soundtrack sounds richer and more

realistic in a rectangular room than in a square one. Include large rugs over
hardwood floors because hard surfaces can distort sound; fabrics lessen distortion.
Hang draperies on windows; Professional installers recommend a seating distance
that's 2 to 2-1/2 times the width of the screen. For example, if a screen is 27 inches
wide, the couch should be 54 to 68 inches away.
A front projection system, which consists of a separate screen and video projector,
offers the biggest picture (up to 200 diagonal inches) and lends the feel of a real
movie theater; however, it requires that a room be completely dark for a good
picture. Rear projection systems and picture-tube televisions, on the other hand,
look as good with the lights on as they do with the lights off.

you'll need at least five speakers to create the full surround-sound effect. Together,
the speakers create a sense of movement and sound localization that links a movie's
visual cues with the soundtrack. For example, when a jet flies left to right across
the screen, in a surround-sound system, the engine's roar "moves" left to right
through the speakers.

To create this effect, place one speaker on each side of the TV screen, two behind
the couch and one on top of the TV. The two stationed at the sides of the screen
should sit about level with your ears (when you're seated) and about 3 feet away
from the side walls. Place the center speaker, which distributes the dialogue of the
movie, smack dab in the center between the front left and right speakers. Finally,
plant the two rear speakers on the wall behind the couch, 6 to 8 feet above the
floor. Space them at least as wide apart as the front left and right speakers. You
may need to install a speaker mount for proper positioning on the wall.

Action-movie buffs will want a subwoofer. This component intensifies the bass of
a movie soundtrack so those big booms sound all the more dramatic.
Accessories The rest of the equipment -- audio-video receiver, VCR, direct
satellite receiver, DVD player -- can be stowed inside a cabinet or even in a well-
ventilated closet in another room. For the latter option, be sure there's enough
cabling to make the connections to the TV.

Remote Lastly, pick up a universal remote control. Available at home

improvement and electronics stores, it does the job of every clicker
Home theater pre-wiring requires knowledge of the number of speakers to be installed.

1. Two front speakers; one on the left of the screen and one on the right of the screen,
2. One front speaker cable just above or below the screen which is the middle front
3. Two rear speakers; one on the left and one of the right in line with front left and right
speaker locations
4. The sub-woofer which can be anywhere in the room acoustically but must be relatively
close to the active equipment the amplifier or surround sound receiver.
Speaker cable is figure eight multi-strand copper cable. Cabling for the sub-woofer is typically a
single shielded cable terminated on an RCA connector. A 7.1 channel system also needs cable
for speakers that are installed between the front and back speakers.
The simplest layout for a home theater system is a single piece of furniture containing all one's
AV equipment, which simplifies wiring. If, on the other hand, a front projection unit is to be
employed, more thought must be given to the layout of the system. Several different cabling
systems are commonly used for this application, including HDMI, DVI, and VGA.

But today, since TVs are getting cheaper by the minute and technological advances have
revolutionized the medium itself, it’s no surprise to see a set in every room of the house.
This goes for the bedroom as well. Lying in bed and watching some tube before turning in
has become common practice for many households, and you’re not alone: in recent surveys,
almost 90% of Americans admitted to watching TV in bed.

The angle of the TV is essential to comfort. Therefore, never place it on small furniture or in
a corner of the room. Instead, put it on a tall dresser at the foot of the bed or mount it to
the ceiling with specialized hanging brackets. 

The trouble with TVs in the bedroom is that you’re put at a distance from the screen, which
means you have to blast the sound in order to hear it across the room. Not only is it loud,
but if you’re sharing a bed, both of you are forced to stay up, which creates conflict in
synchronized sleep schedules. Here’s how to get around the sound problem:

 Surround Sound: You may think it’d make things louder, but it actually creates more
control. When the speaker is placed near your ear, you’ll no longer have to crank it
 up. Also, put speakers on each night stand so both partners have complete volume
control.
 Cordless Headphones: Or buy wireless headphones to wear in bed. It may look silly,
but your partner can sleep or read while you enjoy the news at a comfortable audio
level.

When watching TV, most people prefer total darkness. This may work in a movie theater, but
in the bedroom it can cause eye-strain. Plus, it hurts your sleep. When darkness descends,
your body immediately gets ready for sleep, yet by watching TV you’re forcing it to stay alert.
Then, when the TV is turned off, you may feel wide awake from the induced stimulus.
Therefore, always have a bit of light when you watch.

 So, have a lamp nearby to create a low glow in the room. When turned off, the
darkness will feel even darker (once again, install one on each side of the bed so
each partner has complete access).
 Plus, clamp a reading lamp on the headboard to provide a little illumination around
your eyes in order to avoid strain (it also allows you the option of working or reading
in bed).
 Or, install a dimmer in order to control the level of light (this particular installation
also creates an opportunity to spark some romantic mood-lighting when necessary).

A permanently wired smoke detector is required in each bedroom and on

the ceiling or wall at a point centrally located in the bedrooms.

Bedrooms may require tamper proof outlets or receptacles. These outlets

prevent children from accessing the electrical components.

Decorative four blade Ceiling Fans may be installed with a minimum of 7

feet clearance from the floor to the fan blades. Light and fan
combination units will also used to provide a different look.
 Materials that are to be used for switchboards and sockets must fire resistant with a fire
rating of at least 2-3 hours.

lights in clothes closets need a 15 cm minimum clearance from

combustibles such as walls or the edge of shelf.

Additional lighting fixtures, carefully placed, will support reading from

sleeping position from bed. Proper placement of socket receptacles will
eliminate the need for unsightly and unsafe extension cords as for items
such as electric blankets, alarm clocks, and your favorite source of music.

The night lamp can be conveniently controlled by either the wall switch as
you enter your bedroom or within hands reach from your bedside. Don't
forget the importance of telephone and wall jacks as well as cable TV
provisions.

 Socket outlets provided for appliances such as air conditioners, room

heater etc. that use electricity up to 15A, shall be provided with its own fuse
with suitable backup miniature circuit breaker.
 The switch controlling the socket outlet shall be on the live side of the line.
 For earthing purpose, the socket shall be of 3 pin with the third terminal
connected to the earth wire.
 Ordinary socket outlet of TV, computer accessories can be fixed at any
height above 20 cm from the finished floor level. These sockets which
automatically get screened after removal of the plug must be installed for
safety purpose.
 Socket of air conditioners etc. must be located at higher levels.
6 1 6

(charging
purpose, Night (Air
Lamp, TV point) conditioner/coler
TV socket, DTH Heater, Ironing
point, and a spare Equipment) Light, Fan & Night Lamp