NUS: AC and Switching Circuits

In this course, you will learn all about circuits with alternating current (AC). The course shows how to design and analyse AC circuits, and concepts like phasors and power factor are explained. We also cover transformers, fuses, relays, and the use of transistors as switches. The course is the second in our series on electronics and a working knowledge of DC circuits is assumed.

About this Course

This course provides comprehensive insights into Alternating Current (AC), focusing on its use worldwide connecting power plants, homes, and businesses. It explores why AC is employed over DC and teaches how to design and analyze AC circuits, catering to various electrical uses and situations.

Course Description

Through a structured approach, participants will delve into AC circuits covering key areas such as calculation of voltage, currents, and power, handling sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal sources, the use of transformers and implementing switches in circuits through relays and transistors.

What Students Will Learn

Calculation of voltages, currents, and power in circuits with AC sources.
Approaches to compute RMS voltage and current.
Handling of sinusoidal and non-sinusoidal sources.
Designing and implementing transformers in circuits.
Building practical DC power supplies and rectifiers.
Understanding and applying the concepts of maximum power transfer in AC circuits.

Prerequisites or Skills Necessary

Students are expected to have basic knowledge of Direct Current (DC) circuits. Completion of courses like Circuits for Beginners is recommended for a better understanding and foundational ground in electrical concepts.

Course Curriculum

Week 1: Introduction to AC Circuits
Week 2: Phasors
Week 3: Non-Sinusoidal AC Circuits
Week 4: Transformer Circuits
Week 5: AC-DC Conversion
Week 6: Switching Circuits

Who This Course is For

This course is ideal for intermediate level students or professionals in electronics who have a basic understanding of DC circuits and aspire to deepen their knowledge in AC circuits and their applications in the electrical engineering field.

Real-World Application of Skills

Skills acquired from this course can be applied in designing and maintaining electrical circuitry in various sectors, including industrial manufacturing, electric power transmission, and consumer electronics. The capability to analyze and construct AC-based systems enhances problem-solving within electrical engineering projects and operations.