Electrical devices orelectric devices aredevices that functionally rely onelectric energy (AC orDC) to operate their core parts (electric motors,transformers,lighting,rechargeable batteries, controlelectronics). They can be contrasted with traditionalmechanical devices which depend on different power sources likefuels or humanphysical strength.Electronic devices are a specialized kind of electrical devices in whichelectric power is predominantly used fordata processing rather than the generation of mechanical forces. To better differentiate between both classes, electric devices that emphasize physical work are also calledelectromechanical.Mechatronics accentuates the intersection of both fields.
Together, electronic and electric devices, their development, maintenance, andpower supply comprise the subject ofelectrical engineering.
The majority of electric devices inhouseholds is stationary and — due to their considerablepower consumption — relies onelectrical installation, especiallyelectric outlets instead of smallelectric generators, batteries, rechargeable or not.[1][2][3]
Due to their dependence on electric power sources, in general well-evolvedpower grids, electric devices and theirpower consumption pattern have moved into the focus ofsmart metering.[4]
Electrical equipment includes anymachine powered byelectricity. It usually consists of anenclosure, a variety ofelectrical components, and often a powerswitch. Examples of these include:
More specifically, electrical equipment refers to the individual components of anelectrical distribution system. These components may involve:
