Electricity is one of the most important blessings that science has

given to mankind. It has also become a part of modern life and

one cannot think of a world without it. Electricity has many uses in
our day to day life.

There were several people who conducted intensive study in

Electricity.

Benjamin Franklin conducted extensive research on electricity in

the 18th century, as documented by Joseph Priestley (1767)
History and Present Status of Electricity, with whom Franklin
carried on extended correspondence.

Michael Faraday was an English scientist who contributed to the

study of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. His main
discoveries include the principles underlying electromagnetic
induction, diamagnetism and electrolysis.

Although Faraday received little formal education, he was one of

the most influential scientists in history. It was by his research on
the magnetic field around a conductor carrying a direct current
that Faraday established the basis for the concept of the Protons are positively charged particles found within atomic
electromagnetic field in physics. nuclei. Rutherford discovered them in experiments with cathode-
ray tubes that were conducted between 1911 and 1919. Protons
Electricity is the set of physical phenomena associated with the are about 99.86% as massive as neutrons.
presence and motion of matter that has a property of electric
charge. Electricity is related to magnetism, both being part of the Electrons are tiny compared to protons and neutrons, over 1,800
phenomenon of electromagnetism, as described by Maxwell's times smaller than either a proton or a neutron. Electrons are
equations. Various common phenomena are related to electricity, about 0.054% as massive as neutrons, according to Jefferson Lab.
including lightning, static electricity, electric heating, electric
discharges and many others.

The presence of an electric charge, which can be either positive or Neutrons are uncharged particles found within all atomic nuclei
negative, produces an electric field. The movement of electric (except for hydrogen). A neutron's mass is slightly larger than that
charges is an electric current and produces a magnetic field. of a proton.

When a charge is placed in a location with a non-zero electric Current

field, a force will act on it. The magnitude of this force is given by
Coulomb's law. Thus, if that charge were to move, the electric
field would be doing work on the electric charge. Thus we can
speak of electric potential at a certain point in space, which is
equal to the work done by an external agent in carrying a unit of
positive charge from an arbitrarily chosen reference point to that
point without any acceleration and is typically measured in volts.
The flow of free electrons in the same general direction from
atom to atom is referred to as current and it is measured in
amperes (“amps” or “A”).
When we look at the flow of electricity, we need to look at its
characteristics. There are three main characteristics of electricity

Electricity is at the heart of many modern technologies, being There are two different theories about this:
used for:
Conventional Flow
Electric power where electric current is used to energize
This theory states that electrons flow from positive to negative.
equipment;
Benjamin Franklin theorized this when very little was known
Electronics which deals with electrical circuits that involve active
about electricity. It states that an invisible fluid known as
electrical components such as vacuum tubes, transistors, diodes
electricity tended to flow through a wire from the positive to the
and integrated circuits, and associated passive interconnection
negative.
technologies.

Fundamentals of Electricity

Atoms are the basic units of matter and the defining structure of
elements. The term "atom" comes from the Greek word for
indivisible, because it was once thought that atoms were the
smallest things in the universe and could not be divided. We now
know that atoms are made up of three particles: protons,
neutrons and electrons — which are composed of even smaller
particles, such as quarks.
Electron Flow
This theory states that electrons flow from negative to positive.
When more was known about the behavior of electrons, scientists
discovered that electrons actually flow from negative to positive.
Voltage
Voltage is the force that is applied to a conductor to free
electrons, which causes electrical current to flow. It is measured
in volts or “V”. Current will flow in a conductor as long as voltage,
the electrical pressure, is applied to the conductor
There are two methods that voltage forces current to flow:
Direct Current - The voltage forces the electrons to flow
continuously in one direction through a closed circuit. This type of
voltage is called Direct Current (DC) voltage. Batteries and DC
generators produce DC voltage.
Alternating Current - Voltage forces electrons to flow first in one
direction, then in the opposite direction, alternating very quickly.  It was named after Georg Ohm, a German physicist who published
Resistance
The restriction to the flow of electrons through a conductor is
called resistance and it is measured in ohms and abbreviated “W”,
the Greek symbol Omega.
In general, there are four factors that affect the amount of
resistance in a conductor:
Materials - Rubber, glass and porcelain are considered good
insulators.
(Conductors - materials or substances which allow electricity to
flow through it. While Insulator, any of various substances that
block or retard the flow of electrical or thermal currents.)
Length: The longer the conductor, the more resistance in the
conductor.
Cross-Sectional Area - As the cross-sectional area of a conductor
increases, the resistance decreases, and vice versa.
Temperature - A cooler wire has less resistance than a warmer
wire. Cooler particles have less kinetic energy, so they move more
slowly. Therefore, they are less likely to collide with moving
electrons in current.
Electric Circuit – defined as a complete conducting path that
carries current from a source of electricity to and through some
electrical device (or load) and back to the source.
There are two Arrangements of Electric Circuits:
Electric Current
Electric Current is defined as the rate at which charge flows
through a surface (the cross section of a wire.
The unit of electric power is the Watt (W). A larger unit of 1000
watts is the kilowatt (kw). The power input in watts to any
electrical device having a resistance R and in which the current is I
is given by the equation:
Wattage W = 12R or W = I (IR
Ohm’s Law
Ohm's Law is the fundamental equation for electricity and governs
the vast majority of electrical work that we do.
a treatise in 1827. 
In it, he explained measurements of applied voltage and current
by using a simple electrical circuit made with varying lengths of
wire. 
The law states that electrical current in a circuit or conductor will
always be proportionate to the voltage across the conductor or
circuit, and inversely proportional to the total  resistance. 
V (voltage) = I (current) x R (resistance) 
Let’s do an example; we are installing a 120V light bulb with a
resistance of 100Ω (Ohms). If we move the formula around, we
find that: 
I=V/R
therefore, 120V / 100 Ω= 1.2A
Electricity is the set of physical phenomena associated with the
presence and motion of matter that has a property of electric
charge. Electricity is related to magnetism, both being part of the
phenomenon of electromagnetism.
Key people who conducted intensive study in Electricity: Benjamin
Franklin, Michael Faraday.
Electricity is being used for: Electric Power and Electronics.
Atoms are the basic units of matter and the defining structure of
elements.
Atoms consist of three basic particles: protons, electrons, and
neutrons.
Current - The flow of free electrons in the same general direction
from atom to atom and it is measured in amperes .(A).
Two theories about this: Conventional Flow and Electron Flow.
Voltage - The force that is applied to a conductor to free
electrons, which causes electrical current to flow. It is measured in
volts or “V”.
Two methods that voltage forces current to flow: Direct Current
and Alternating Current
Resistance - The restriction to the flow of electrons through a
conductor is called resistance and it is measured in ohms and
abbreviated “W”, the Greek symbol Omega.
Four factors that affect the amount of resistance in a conductor:
Materials, Length, Cross-Sectional Area and Temperature.
Electric Circuit - Defined as a complete conducting path that
carries current from a source of electricity to and through some
electrical device (or load) and back to the source.
There are two Arrangements of Electric Circuits: Parallel and
Series Circuits
Electric Current - Defined as the rate at which charge flows
through a surface (the cross section of a wire. The unit of electric
power is the Watt (W).
Ohm’s Law - The fundamental equation for electricity and governs
the vast majority of electrical work that we do.
Renewable Energy, often referred to as clean energy, comes from
natural sources or processes that are constantly replenished. For
example, sunlight, water or wind keep shining and blowing, even
if their availability depends on time and weather.
While renewable energy is often thought of as a new technology,
harnessing nature’s power has long been used for heating,
transportation, lighting, and more. Wind has powered boats to
sail the seas and windmills to grind grain. The sun has provided
warmth during the day and helped kindle fires to last into the
evening. But over the past 500 years or so, humans increasingly
turned to cheaper, dirtier energy sources such as coal and fracked
gas.
Now that we have increasingly innovative and less-expensive ways
to capture and retain wind and solar energy, renewables are
becoming a more important power source. The expansion in
renewables is also happening at scales large and small, from
rooftop solar panels on homes that can sell power back to the grid
to giant offshore wind farms. Even some entire rural communities
rely on renewable energy for heating and lighting.
As renewable use continues to grow, a key goal will be to
modernize America’s electricity grid, making it smarter, more
secure, and better integrated across regions.
Here are the list of renewable sources of energy in the country:
1. Hydropower
Hydropower is energy in moving water. People have a long history
of using the force of water flowing in streams and rivers to
produce mechanical energy.
Some hydropower plants use dams and some do not. The images
below show both types of hydropower plants.
Many dams were built for other purposes and hydropower was
added later. In the United States, there are about 80,000 dams of
which only 2,400 produce power. The other dams are for
recreation, stock/farm ponds, flood control, water supply, and
irrigation.
Three Types of Hydropower Facilities
Impoundment
The most common type of hydroelectric power plant is an
impoundment facility. An impoundment facility, typically a large
hydropower system, uses a dam to store river water in a reservoir.
Water released from the reservoir flows through a turbine,
spinning it, which in turn activates a generator to produce
electricity. The water may be released either to meet changing
electricity needs or to maintain a constant reservoir level.
Diversion
A diversion, sometimes called run-of-river, facility channels a
portion of a river through a canal or penstock. It may not require
the use of a dam.

Pumped Storage
Another type of hydropower called pumped storage works like a
battery, storing the electricity generated by other power sources
like solar, wind, and nuclear for later use. It stores energy by
pumping water uphill to a reservoir at higher elevation from a
second reservoir at a lower elevation. When the demand for
electricity is low, a pumped storage facility stores energy by
pumping water from a lower reservoir to an upper reservoir.
During periods of high electrical demand, the water is released
back to the lower reservoir and turns a turbine, generating
electricity.
Known Hydroelectric Plants in the Philippines
There are hydroelectric plants of both the conventional dam and
run-of-the-river types. Of twenty-nine hydroelectric plants,
fourteen are the conventional dam and fifteen are run-of-the-river
systems.
Many areas of the Philippines are suitable for hydroelectricity
production. However, hydroelectricity production in the
Philippines can cause upstream and downstream flooding during
monsoonal weather and when excess water is released from
dams.
2. Geothermal Power
Most power plants—whether fueled by coal, gas, nuclear power,
or geothermal energy—have one feature in common: they
convert heat to electricity. Heat from the Earth, or geothermal —
Geo (Earth) + thermal (heat) — energy is accessed by drilling
water or steam wells in a process similar to drilling for oil.
Geothermal power plants have much in common with traditional
power-generating stations. They use many of the same
components, including turbines, generators, transformers, and
other standard power generating equipment. While there are
three types of geothermal power plants, this animation shows a
generic plant.
Geothermal energy is derived from the heat found beneath the
earth's surface. In nations with temperate climates, geothermal
energy is used directly, to provide heating for homes. In the
Philippines, geothermal energy is used to generate electricity.
Two types of technologies are used in the Philippines.
These are firstly, the higher temperature flash steam method and
secondly, the lower temperature binary cycle method. In the
Philippines, the first is the more common. The second is used only
at the MAKBAN plant. Geothermal plants are suitable for areas
with low winds, such as Mindanao, and areas that have rainy
weather, such as Batanes. Geothermal energy production can
result in the release of toxic substances such as mercury,
hydrogen sulfide, arsenic and selenium. In 2014, at a geothermal
plant in Biliran, eight plant workers were hospitalized with
hydrogen sulphide poisoning.
3. Solar Power
Solar power is energy from the sun that is converted into thermal
or electrical energy.
Solar energy is captured in a variety of ways, the most common of
which is with photovoltaic solar panels that convert the sun’s rays
into usable electricity. Aside from using photovoltaics to generate
electricity, solar energy is commonly used in thermal applications
to heat indoor spaces or fluids.
Residential and commercial property owners can install solar hot
water systems and design their buildings with passive solar
heating in mind to fully take advantage of the sun's energy with
solar technology.

Solar Power Sites in the Philippines

In 2015, three solar farms were constructed in the Philippines. The

Philippines receives over 7kWh per square meter per day during
its peak month of April and lowest at 3kWH per square meter per
day during its off-peak month of December as observed by
Schadow1 Expeditions in 33 cities of the country.

How Wind Turbines Work

When the wind blows past a wind turbine, its blades capture the
wind’s kinetic energy and rotate, turning it into mechanical
4. Wind Power energy.

All wind power sites in the Philippines are on-shore facilities. This rotation turns an internal shaft connected to a gearbox,
Some, such as Ilocos Norte, Pililla Wind Farm in Rizal and Bangui which increases the speed of rotation by a factor of 100. That
Wind Farm are tourist destinations spins a generator that produces electricity.

Wind energy (or wind power) refers to the process of creating
electricity using the wind, or air flows that occur naturally in the
earth’s atmosphere. Modern wind turbines are used to capture
kinetic energy from the wind and generate electricity.
There are three main types of wind energy:
Biomass Power
Biomass energy refers to energy derived from plant and animal
sources. Biomass resources are abundant in the Philippines due to
its large agricultural industry. Bagasse, rice husks, and coconut
husks are used to generate power. The Philippines also uses
Biogas from landfill as a biomass energy source. The availability of
biomass can be affected by events such as drought.

Utility-scale Wind: Wind turbines that range in size from 100
kilowatts to several megawatts, where the electricity is delivered
to the power grid and distributed to the end user by electric
utilities or power system operators.
Distributed or "small" Wind: Single small wind turbines below 100
kilowatts that are used to directly power a home, farm or small
business and are not connected to the grid.
How Is Biomass Energy Generated
In a direct combustion system, biomass is burned in a combustor
or furnace to generate hot gas, which is fed into a boiler to
generate steam, which is expanded through a steam turbine or
steam engine to produce mechanical or electrical energy
Types of Biomass

Offshore Wind: Wind turbines that are erected in large bodies of

water, usually on the continental shelf. Offshore wind turbines are
larger than land-based turbines and can generate more power.

Parts of Wind Turbine

Hydropower - Energy in moving water

Types of Hydroelectric Plants: Impoundment, Diversion, Pumped

Storage.
Geothermal Power - Energy is heat derived within the sub-surface
of the earth.
Solar Power - Usable energy generated from the sun in the form
of electric or thermal energy.
Oil (also known as petroleum) is a fossil fuel formed from the
remains of tiny sea plants and animals that died hundreds of
millions of years ago. Once refined, oil can be used to make
products such as gasoline, diesel and jet fuel.

Wind Power - The process of creating electricity using the wind, or

air flows.

Types of Wind Power/Enegy: Utility-scale Wind, Distributed or

"small" Wind, Offshore Wind.

Biomass Energy - Energy refers to energy derived from plant and

animal sources.

Types of Biomass Energy: Garbage, Crops, Alcohol Fuels, Landfill

Gas, Woods

Non-renewable Energy is a source of energy that will eventually

run out. Most sources of non-renewable energy. These natural
resources are a major source of power for a vast amount of
industries – however, there are numerous downsides to non-
renewable energy, including their negative environmental impact
and the fact they are in limited supply. What Products Do We Get From Oil

1. Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock
with a high amount of carbon and hydrocarbons. Coal is primarily
used as fuel to generate electric power in the different countries.
The coal is burned and the heat given off is used to convert water
into steam, which drives a turbine.
The most important product to come from oil is gasoline, which is
used to fuel cars. Other petroleum products include diesel,
heating oil and jet fuel for aeroplanes.
These products are mainly used as energy sources in the
transportation and industrial sectors, but petroleum products are
also used for commercial and residential purposes.

Coal is a fossil fuel. It comes from the remains of plants that died Crude oil is the form that oil is in when it is first removed from the
about 100 to 400 million years ago. Coal is a non-renewable ground – we cannot use crude oil as an energy source until it has
energy source because it takes millions of years to form. been refined.

Coal is a rock created from buried plants that lived and died
hundreds of millions of years ago, when the Earth's surface was
covered by swampy forests.
Types of Coal
Oil refineries clean and separate crude oil into various fuels and
by-products.
Gasoline is the main product to come from oil. It is used as fuel for
vehicles such as cars.

There are four major types (or “ranks”) of coal. Rank refers to
steps in a slow, natural process called “coalification,” during which
buried plant matter changes into an ever denser, drier, more
carbon rich, and harder material. The four ranks are:
Anthracite: The highest rank of coal. It is a hard, brittle, and black
lustrous coal, often referred to as hard coal, containing a high
percentage of fixed carbon and a low percentage of volatile
matter.
Bituminous: Bituminous coal is a middle rank coal between
subbituminous and anthracite. Bituminous usually has a high
heating (Btu) value and is the most common type of coal used in
electricity generation in the United States. Bituminous coal
appears shiny and smooth when you first see it, but look closer
and you may see it has layers.
Subbituminous: Subbituminous coal is black in color and dull (not
shiny), and has a higher heating value than lignite.
Lignite: Lignite coal, aka brown coal, is the lowest grade coal with
the least concentration of carbon
Oil
3. Natural Gas
Natural gas (also known as fossil gas) is a non-renewable fossil
fuel formed from the remains of tiny sea plants and animals that
died 300-400 million years ago. Approximately 90% of natural gas
is composed of methane, but it also contains other gases such as
propane and butane.
Propane is a gas that comes from natural gas and petroleum (oil).
It is a clean-burning fuel that has a lot of different uses, including:
Making products and fuelling industry
Heating barns and operating farm equipment
Fuelling hot air balloons
Heating homes
Fuelling barbeques and appliances
Fuelling machinery
Uses of Gas
Power Generation. Natural gas is a major source of electricity
generation through the use of cogeneration, gas turbines, steam
turbines and machines. Natural gas is also well suited for a
combined use in association with renewable energy sources such
as wind or solar and for alimenting peak-load power stations
functioning in tandem with hydroelectric plants.
Fertilizers. Natural gas is a major feedstock for the production of
ammonia, via the Haber process, for use in fertilizer production.
Others. Natural gas is also used in the manufacture of fabrics,
glass, steel, plastics, paint, synthetic oil, and other products
How Is Natural Gas Formed
Nuclear Energy
Nuclear energy comes from the nucleus of atoms. The energy is
released by nuclear fusion (nuclei are fused together) or nuclear
fission (nuclei are split apart). Nuclear plants use nuclear fission of
a radioactive element called uranium to generate electricity.
Benefits of Nuclear Energy
Nuclear fights climate change. Nuclear energy provides large
amounts of 24/7 carbon-free electricity now, which is
irreplaceable in protecting the environment.
Nuclear boosts International Development. Nuclear energy helps
developing nations meet sustainable development goals
Nuclear protects our air. Nitrogen oxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate
matter and mercury: all things you don’t want in the air you
breathe. Nuclear energy provides power 24/7 without a trace of
those pollutants.
Nuclear produces electricity reliably. Around-the-clock electricity
is a must for our nation to prosper in the 21st century. Clean,
reliable nuclear energy is a critical part of any countries.
Where Does Nuclear Energy Come From?
Atoms – the particles that make up every object in the universe –
consist of neutrons, protons and electrons. They contain a
nucleus, which is where nuclear energy comes from.
Nuclear energy is released from an atom through either:
Nuclear fusion, when nuclei of atoms are combined or fused
together. This is how the Sun produces energy.
Nuclear fission, when nuclei of atoms are split apart. This is the
method used by nuclear plants to generate electricity.
What Is Uranium
Uranium is a radioactive element that was formed when the Earth
was first created. It occurs naturally in certain types of rock.
Uranium is one of the few elements that is easily fissioned, so is
used as fuel by nuclear power plants. Although uranium is found
all over the world, it is still a non-renewable energy source.
What Happens During Nuclear Fission in a Nuclear Plant
A particular form of uranium – called uranium-235 – is most
commonly used for energy production, as its nucleus splits easily
when it is bombarded by a neutron.
Here's what happens during a nuclear fission reaction:
The nucleus of a uranium atom is bombarded by a neutron,
causing it to split into two atoms
At the same time, energy is released as heat and radiation
As a result of the fission reaction, more neutrons are released
These neutrons then start bombarding other uranium atoms, so
the process keeps repeating itself. This is called a chain
reactionlectrical Layout
Electrical Layout is a type of technical drawing that shows
information about power, lighting, and communication for an
engineering or architectural project.
Electrical Layout in residentials composed of two (2 )drawings:
Lighting Layout and Power Layout.
Lighting layout coordinates the fixture locations with
switches/diffusers, and other elements, while Power Layout is the
source of its power to generate electricity on a lighting fixture or
any appliances.
Plan for Lighting. Layout and wiring plans for general lighting on
floor plans drawn, shall show:
Location of lighting fixtures in each room or area. In residences,
hotels, apartment houses, and churches, the illumination level in
each room or area need not be shown nor computed;
Location of switches for each fixtures or group of fixtures;
Complete wiring of emergency lighting system, if any;
A combination drawing showing layout of receptacle outlets may
be made at the discretion of the design Engineer or an Architect
Plan for Lighting. Location of outlets in each room or area. In
residences, hotels, apartment houses, and churches should
illustrated.
Symbols

Electrical symbols are required to do the electrical drawing or

layout. Without the help of electrical symbols, we won't be able to
do the electrical drawing. Electrical circuits are represented by How Electricity Travels Throughout Our Home
electrical drawings. Symbols and number combinations are used
Electricity is made at a generating station by huge generators.
to represent electrical circuits
Generating stations can use wind, coal, natural gas, or water.

The current is sent through transformers to increase the voltage

to push the power long distances.

The electrical charge goes through high-voltage transmission lines

that stretch across the country.

It reaches a substation, where the voltage is lowered so it can be

sent on smaller power lines.

It travels through distribution lines to your neighborhood. Smaller

transformers reduce the voltage again to make the power safe to
use in our homes. These smaller transformers may be mounted on
the poles, or sitting on the ground (they’re the big green boxes,
called pad mount transformers).

It connects to your house and passes through a meter that

measures how much your family uses.

Sample Power Layout The electricity goes to the service panel in your basement or
garage, where breakers or fuses protect the wires inside your
house from being overloaded. (Never touch a service panel! It is
only to be operated by your parents or a professional.)

The electricity travels through wires inside the walls to the outlets
and switches all over your house.

Fire Detection and Alarm System (FDAS)

Fire alarm systems are important in providing occupants of

buildings prompt warning if a fire occurs. Systems that are not
properly installed or maintained may cause unwanted alarm
activations. This has a negative effect on occupants' responses to
genuine alarms and as a result downgrades their effectiveness

A key aspect of fire protection is to identify a developing fire

emergency in a timely manner, and to alert the building's
occupants and fire emergency organizations. This is the role of
Sample Lighting Layout Fire Detection and Alarm System. Depending on the anticipated
fire scenario, building and use type, number and type of
occupants, and criticality of contents and mission, these systems
can provide several main functions.

Fire Detection and Alarm System is designed to alert us to an

emergency so that we can take action to protect ourselves, staff
and the general public.These systems are found in Offices,
Factories, and public buildings, they are a part of our everyday
routine but are often overlooked until there is an emergency at
which point, they might just save our lives.

Whatever the method of detection is, if the alarm is triggered,

sounders will operate to warn people in the building that there
may be a fire and to evacuate. Fire Detection and Alarm System
may also incorporate a remote signal system which could then
alert the fire brigade via a central station.

Different Parts of Fire Detection and Alarm System (FDAS)

Detectors
Control Panel/Unit
Alarm Devices
Wiring or Circuitry
Control Panels
The control panel is the "brain" of the fire detection and alarm
system. It is responsible for monitoring the various alarm "input"
devices such as manual and automatic detection components, and
then activating alarm "output" devices such as horns, bells,
warning lights, emergency telephone dialers, and building
controls.
It is the central hub for all of the detector signals to be wired to
and provides a status indication to the users. The unit can also be
set up to simulate an alarm for use in routine Fire and evacuation
drills, so all staff knows what action to take in the event of a real
fire.
Fire Alarm Detectors
At the core of a fire alarm system are the detection devices, from
sophisticated intelligent smoke detectors to simple manually
operated break glass units, there are a wide array of different
types, but we can divide them into groups including:
Heat detectors
Smoke detectors
Carbon Monoxide detectors
Multi-sensor detectors
Manual Call Points
Heat Detectors
Heat detector can either work on a fixed temperature basis,
where it will trigger an alarm if the temperature exceeds a pre-set
value or they can work on the rate of change in temperature.
Commonly Heat detectors work in a similar way to an electrical
fuse, the detectors contain a eutectic alloy which is heat sensitive
when a certain temperature is reached the alloy turns from a solid
to a liquid which in turn triggers the alarm.
Smoke Detectors
There are three basic types of smoke detectors including:
Ionization
Light Scattering
Light Obscuring
Ionization Smoke Detector
Ionization Smoke detector generally contains two chambers. The
first is used as a reference to compensate for changes in ambient
temperature, humidity or pressure. The second chamber contains
a radioactive source, usually alpha particle, which ionizes the air
passing through the chamber where a current flows between two
electrodes. When smoke enters the chamber the current flow
decreases. This drop in current flow is used to initiate an alarm.
Light Scattering Smoke Detector
The light scattering smoke detector operates on the Tyndall
effect; a photocell and light source are separated from each other
by a darkened chamber such that the light source does not fall on
the photocell.
The passage of smoke into the chamber causes the light from the
source to be scattered and fall on the photocell. The photocell
output is being used to initiate an alarm.
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide detectors are known also as CO fire detectors
are electronic detectors used to indicate the outbreak of fire by
sensing the level of carbon monoxide in the air.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas produced by combustion.
In this instance, these detectors are not the same as Carbon
monoxide detectors used in the home for protecting residents
against carbon monoxide produced by incomplete combustion in
appliances such as gas fires or boilers.
Carbon Monoxide fire detectors use the same type of sensor as
those in the home but are more sensitive and respond more
quickly. Carbon monoxide detectors have an electrochemical cell,
which senses carbon monoxide, but not smoke or any other
combustion products.
Multi-Sensor Detectors
The Multi-sensor detectors combine inputs from both optical and
heat sensors and process them using a sophisticated algorithm
built into the detector circuitry.
When polled by the control panel the detector returns a value
based on the combined responses from both the optical and heat
sensors. They are designed to be sensitive to a wide range of fires.
Manual Call Points
A Manual Call Point or Break Glass Call Point is a device which
enables personnel to raise the alarm by breaking the frangible
element on the fascia; this then triggers the alarm.
Different Types of Fire Alarm Systems
Fire Alarm Systems can be broken down into four main types;
Conventional
Addressable
Intelligent
Wireless
Conventional Fire Alarm Systems
In a Conventional Fire Alarm System, physical cabling is used to
interconnect several call points and detectors, the signals from
which are wired back to the main control unit.
Addressable Fire Alarm Systems
The detection principle of an Addressable System is the same as a
Conventional System except that each detector is given a set
Address (usually by means of a dip-switch) and the Control Panel
can then determine exactly which detector or call point has
initiated the alarm.
Intelligent Fire Alarm Systems
However, in our next type of System, which is an Intelligent Fire
Alarm system, each detector effectively incorporates its own
computer which evaluates the environment around it and
communicates to the Control Panel whether there is a fire, fault
or the detector head needs cleaning.
Essentially Intelligent Systems are far more complex and
incorporate far more facilities than Conventional or Addressable
Systems. Their primary purpose is to help prevent the occurrence
of false alarms.
Wireless Fire Alarm Systems
The final type of system we will consider is the Wireless Fire Alarm
System.
These are an effective alternative to traditional wired fire alarm
systems for all applications. They utilize secure, license-free radio
communications to interconnect the sensors and devices with the
controllers.
It is a simple concept, which provides many unique benefits and is
a full intelligent fire detection system without the need for
cabling.
We have learned that Fire Alarm systems are fitted in many
buildings we encounter every day and that they are used to warn
people within the building of an emergency fire-related situation.
Wiring or Cable
The two types of cables used for the installation of Security
Cameras and Digital Video Recorders (DVRs) are Plug and Play
Cables and RG59 Coax Siamese cable.
Automated Building Security System
Intruder Alarm System
Electronic Building Access System
Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
Intruder Alarm System
Intruder/burglar alarm system is a set of interconnected devices
that is aimed to protect an object, usually a facility, against
intruders and to notify the owner or/and the monitoring
station/center of any violation of the protected zones. Depending
on the requirements and financial possibilities, it can be a simple
alarm system suitable for a basic protection of a
home/apartment, or a more advanced structure, which in
addition to the basic functions will greatly improve the life
comforts of the users.
The designer of the system, usually the installation company or
simply the installer, can greatly help the investor/user (customer)
to choose an optimal solution, depending on the characteristics of
the facility and the customer needs, also taking into account
expansion options for the future. More advanced alarm systems
can perform functions like access control (motorized gates,
electric strikes in wickets/doors), lighting and heating control, and
many other tasks of home/building automation.
The interface devices (manipulators) are modern keypads and
touch panels, which beyond the aesthetic appearance and
intuitive operation have the ability to store maps of the facility on
memory cards for easier control of the entire system, as well as
(optionally) mobile phones or handhelds and PCs with dedicated
applications and Internet connection.
Typical Components:
Premises control unit (PCU), Alarm Control Panel (ACP), or simply
panel
The "brain" of the system, it reads sensor inputs, tracks
arm/disarm status, and signals intrusions. In modern system, this
is typically one or more computer circuit boards inside a metal
enclosure, along with a power supply.
Sensors
Devices which detect intrusions. Sensors may be placed at the
perimeter of the protected area, within it, or both. Sensors can
detect intruders by a variety of methods, such as monitoring
doors and windows for opening, or by monitoring unoccupied
interiors for motions, sound, vibration, or other disturbances.
Alerting devices
These indicate an alarm condition. Most commonly, these are
bells, sirens, and/or flashing lights. Alerting devices serve the dual
purposes of warning occupants of intrusion, and potentially
scaring off burglars. These devices may also be used to warn
occupants of a fire or smoke condition.
Keypads
Small devices, typically wall-mounted, which function as the
human-machine interface to the system. In addition to buttons,
keypads typically feature indicator lights, a small multi-character
display, or both.etc.
Interconnections between components. This may consist of direct
wiring to the control unit, or wireless links with local power
supplies
Different Sensors
Passive Infrared Detectors
A passive infrared sensor used to detect motion. The passive
infrared (PIR) motion detector is one of the most common sensors
found in household and small business environments. It offers
affordable and reliable functionality. The term passive refers to
the fact that the detector does not generate or radiate its own
energy; it works entirely by detecting the heat energy given off by
other objects.
Infrasound Detectors
The infrasound detector works by detecting infrasound, or sound
waves at frequencies below 20 hertz. Sounds at those frequencies
are inaudible to the human ear. Due to its inherent properties,
infrasound can travel distances of many hundreds of kilometers.
Infrasound signals can result from volcanic eruptions,
earthquakes, gravity waves, opening and closing of doors, forcing
windows to name a few.
The entire infrasound detection system consists of the following
components:
a speaker (infrasound sensor) as a microphone input,
an order-frequency filter, an analog to digital (A/D) converter,
and finally an MCU, which is used to analyse the recorded signal.
Microwave Detectors
This device emits microwaves from a transmitter and detects any
reflected microwaves or reduction in beam intensity using a
receiver. The transmitter and receiver are usually combined inside
a single housing (monostatic) for indoor applications, and
separate housings (bistatic) for outdoor applications. To reduce
false alarms this type of detector is usually combined with a
passive infrared detector, or Dual Tec brand or similar alarm.
Microwave detectors respond to a Doppler shift in the frequency
of the reflected energy, by a phase shift, or by a sudden reduction
of the level of received energy. Any of these effects may indicate
motion of an intruder.
Photoelectric Beams
Photoelectric beam system detect the presence of an intruder by
transmitting visible or infrared light beams across an area, where
these beams may be obstructed. To improve the detection surface
area, the beams are often employed in stacks of two or more.
However, if an intruder is aware of the technology's presence, it
can be avoided.
The technology can be an effective long-range detection system, if
installed in stacks of three or more where the transmitters and
receivers are staggered to create a fence-like barrier. Systems are
available for both internal and external applications. To prevent a
clandestine attack using a secondary light source being used to
hold the detector in a sealed condition whilst an intruder passes
through, most systems use and detect a modulated light source
Glass-Break Detection
The glass-break detector may be used for internal perimeter
building protection. Glass-break acoustic detectors are mounted
in close proximity to the glass panes and listen for sound
frequencies associated with glass breaking.
Seismic glass-break detectors, generally referred to as shock
sensors, are different in that they are installed on the glass pane.
When glass breaks it produces specific shock frequencies which
travel through the glass and often through the window frame and
the surrounding walls and ceiling.
Window foil is a less sophisticated, mostly outdated detection
method that involves gluing a thin strip of conducting foil on the
inside of the glass and putting low-power electric current through
it. Breaking the glass is practically guaranteed to tear the foil and
break the circuit.
Smoke, Heat, And Carbon Monoxide Detectors
These are also known as 24-hour zones (which are on at all times).
Smoke and heat detectors protect from the risk of fire using
different detection methods. Carbon monoxide detectors help
protect from the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Although an
intruder alarm panel may also have these detectors connected, it
may not meet all the local fire code requirements of a fire alarm
system. – SEE FDAS
Motion Sensors
Motion sensors are devices that use various forms of technology
to detect movement. The technology typically found in motion
sensors to trigger an alarm includes infrared, ultrasonic, vibration
and contact. Dual technology sensors combine two or more forms
of detection in order to reduce false alarms as each method has
its advantages and disadvantages.
Traditionally motion sensors are an integral part of a home
security system. These devices are typically installed to cover a
large area as they commonly cover up to 40 ft with a 135° field of
vision.
Security Electric Fence
Security electric fences consist of wires that carry pulses of
electric current to provide a non-lethal shock to deter potential
intruders. Tampering with the fence also results in an alarm that is
logged by the security electric fence energiser, and can also
trigger a siren, strobe, and/or notifications to a control room or
directly to the owner via email or phone.
In practical terms, security electric fences are a type of sensor
array that acts as a (or part of a) physical barrier, a psychological
deterrent to potential intruders, and as part of a security alarm
system.
Advantages: less expensive than many other methods, less likely
to give false alarms than many other alternative perimeter
security methods, and highest psychological deterrent of all
methods.
Disadvantage: potential for unintended shock.
Electro-Mechanical (Shaker) Sensors
These electro-mechanical devices are mounted on barriers and
are used primarily to detect an attack on the structure itself.
The technology relies on an unstable mechanical configuration
that forms part of the electrical circuit. When movement or
vibration occurs, the unstable portion of the circuit moves and
breaks the current flow, which produces an alarm. The medium
transmitting the vibration must be correctly selected for the
specific sensor as they are best suited to different types of
structures and configurations.
Advantages: Low-cost and easily installed on existing fences.
Disadvantages: Must be fence-mounted. Being mechanical in
nature, the system is unable to analyze differences in the pattern
of vibrations (for example, the difference between gusts of wind
and a person climbing the fence
Electronic Building Access System
Large companies use this system to control employee by
identifying an authorized individual and allowing that person
access to a restricted area. It also improves employee productivity
by preventing unrestricted traffic to different areas. It can also
track and recall the employee information at a later time through
its information data base.
Keycard Lock/Electronic Cardkey
Keycard Lock/Electronic Keycard is a lock operated by a keycard, a
flat, rectangular plastic card with identical dimensions to that of a
credit card or American and EU driver's license. The card stores a
physical or digital pattern that the door mechanism accepts
before disengaging the lock.
There are several common types of keycards in use, including the
mechanical holecard, barcode, magnetic stripe, Wiegand wire
embedded cards, smart card (embedded with a read/write
electronic microchip), and RFID proximity cards. Keycards are
frequently used in hotels as an alternative to mechanical keys.
Keypad
Wall or door mounted, this type of lock system requires a
numerical code to grant entry to a facility or property. The code is
punched in by users via a numerical pad, similar to those on a
basic calculator. If the correct code is entered, the door lock or
deadbolt should release. Some mechanisms require batteries or a
small electrical current in order to unlock.
Some keypad locks have an integrated security feature that keeps
the door locked for a set amount of time (usually 10 to5 minutes)
after several incorrect attempts to enter the code.
Benefits of Keypad Locks
There are many benefits to choosing this type of keyless lock over
conventional locking mechanisms.
Convenience of a Keyless System
The biggest advantage is convenience. It eliminates the necessity
of keys. There’s no need to carry them around, keep track of
copies and spares, or change locks when a key is stolen or
misplaced. Children, guests and service providers can be given
their own code or a temporary code, rather than a key.
Biometric Access Control
Biometric Access Control is a system that holds the door for
intruders and prevents them from accessing the resources by
verifying them as unauthorized persons on the basis of biometrics
authentication. In Biometric Access Control system, biometric
authentication refers to the recognition of human beings by their
physical uniqueness (like thumbmark, eyes).
Biometric Access Control system scans the person and matches
his/her biometric data with the previously stored information in
the database before he/she can access the secured zone or
resources.
Facial Recognition
Facial Recognition is a modern analytics program that identifies
and authenticates a specific person by their facial features. The
software uses biometrics to map the geometry of the face. It
notes more than sixty facial landmarks, measuring and then
calculating a number to represent the combined relative
distances. The result is called a ‘faceprint.’ Cross-referencing the
result of this mathematical formula with known databases quickly
confirms identity.
Face identifiers offer advantages in safety, security, retail,
customer loyalty and law enforcement.
Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
Closed Circuit Television is a system in which all elements – from
the cameras to the recording devices – are directly connected in
order to keep the video from being broadcast over public
airwaves and on a closed circuit (hence the name).
CCTV was first used by the Germans to observe the launch of the
V2 rockets. Since then, it has evolved into the comprehensive
security camera technology we know and use it as today. From
public buildings to private offices, residential homes to major
thoroughfare and streets, strategically placed security cameras
are used to view events as they occur, as well as to capture
footage for monitoring at a later time. Some common uses for
CCTV technology include:
Home Security
Homes with security camera surveillance are far less likely to be
burglarized or vandalized than those without. Though security
cameras don’t do anything to physically prevent crime from
happening, homeowners today use them to deter criminals from
trespassing and to keep their families safe.
Another residential use for CCTV technology is as a “nanny-cam.”
Nanny-cam recordings serve as great resources for those who are
curious as to how their household staff spends their time. Parents
also use nanny-cams to ensure that their children are left in good
hands when they are gone for any length of time
Business
Businesses use CCTV technology for a number of reasons,
including as a crime deterrent. Banks, offices, museums,
restaurants, retail stores, and other businesses are a hotbed for
crime, as most always have cash on hand. To protect the money,
business owners strategically place security cameras at registers,
in back offices, near safes, and at the entrances. Retail stores use
security cameras on the sales floors to deter shoplifting and
vandalism.
Much like with the nanny-cam, businesses also use security
cameras to monitor employees and to make sure that they are
making the best use of their time. This is especially handy when a
business employees night crews, such as cleaning and
maintenance crews, call center staff, and inventory management
teams.
Traffic Monitoring
Law enforcement agencies use security cameras to monitor traffic
at intersections and on busy roads. The footage, which can be
viewed by an officer at any time, allows law enforcement to
identify drivers that run red lights, speed, or otherwise drive
recklessly, and to penalize those drivers while preventing more
serious crime elsewhere.
Types of Systems Available
There are several different CCTV systems available to the public,
but each falls into one of the following three categories:
Simple CCTV Systems, which consist of a camera (or cameras)
connected to a monitor by a single coax cable. In a simple system,
the cameras gain their power from the monitor.
Mains Powered CCTV Systems, which work in the same way as
simple arrangement, except instead of the camera gaining its
power from the monitor, both camera and monitor are powered
separately through the mains. This type of setup allows for more
scalability, as it’s easier to add more cameras to the system The cable required for a basic system is 75 ohm coax cable.
without worrying about the lack of power. RG59U is the normal coaxial cable used, this cable must be
copper center conductor and 95% shield.
Systems with Recording Capabilities, which incorporate video
recorders that allow for data preservation and the ability to
monitor footage at a later time. A DVR can be added to this
system as well for additional storage and video retrieval or
transmission

Types CCTV Available in the Market

Components of CCTV

The four components of all CCTV security systems are the

camera, the monitor, DVR and the cable. While other
supplemental components may be added into more complex
systems.

Camera

The camera is the eye of the system. Its only function is to

provide a view of the site under surveillance by sending an
electronic signal along a video cable. It is passive, it only
views the scene similar to the human eye.

Monitor

The monitor receives the signal sent by the camera and

converts the signal into a picture on a television screen. At
least one monitor must be provided at each viewing station
in the CCTV system in order to see the view provided by the
camera(s).

DVR or Digital Video Recorder

The DVR is the “heart” of the CCTV system. It takes all the
camera inputs, arranges them on screen for live viewing and
also stores footage onto a hard drive for viewing at a later
date.

DVRs record all the cameras regardless of what you are

viewing live on your monitor. It is possible to view 1 camera
at a time or several camera in various combinations
depending on how many channels the DVR supports.

DVR recorders also support remote access over the internet.

You need to connect the DVR to your internet router. This
can be done either with a cable, a power bridge adapter
which uses your electrical wiring or a wireless network point.
Then wherever you are in the world you can view live
footage from your cameras, see previously recorded footage,
make back ups of important events and even make settings
changes to the DVR.

Cable