What to consider before installing CCTV cameras

CCTV installation is the process of setting up surveillance cameras in a particular location to monitor and record any incidents or events that happen in your premises,such as a home, office, or store. It is becoming increasingly popular for security purposes, both for individuals and businesses. However, installing CCTV yourself can be challenging, so here are some guidelines for learners to follow.

1. Plan ahead - Beforepurchasing CCTV cameras, understand the specific locations that you want to monitor. Decide the areas you want to cover, such as entry and exit points or any blind spots. Create a layout or floor plan to understand the best locations for cameras and the quantity required.

2. Choose the right equipment - Select CCTV cameras that meet your requirements and budget. Look for cameras with a high-resolution image quality, a long-range lens for zooming in, and infrared or night vision for low-light conditions. Other than cameras, you will also need storage devices such as DVR (Digital Video Recorder) or NVR (Network Video Recorder) to record and store footage.

3. Install cameras correctly - Mount cameras securely to prevent tampering or damage. Ensure cables and connections are well-hidden and not exposed. Be careful to follow the camera manual instructions carefully for a proper installation.

4. Test the system - Once installed, test the CCTV system to ensure all cameras work correctly, provide a clear image, and are recording accurately. Play back the footage to check the playback quality and any blind spots that may require additional cameras.

5. Keep cameras maintained - CCTV cameras need maintenance to keep functioning correctly. Clean the cameras regularly to prevent a build-up of dust or dirt. Inspect and replace any damaged components, like cables or connectors.

In conclusion, CCTV installation requires a careful plan before deciding on the equipment required, installation process, and maintenance. Beginners should consider seeking advice from a professional installer.

Share:

Read More

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MCB,MCCB, ELCB AND RCCB.

An electrical circuit breaker is a type of switching device that can be automatically and manually activated to control and protect the electrical power system, respectively. As current power systems work with large currents, special instructions should be given during circuit breaker design to break the arc produced during the circuit breaker process. This was the basic definition of circuit breakers. These are grouped into different types, which are further divided into specific categories.

Difference between MCB and MCCB, ELCB, RCCB

Different circuit breakers and differences between MCB and MCCB, ELCB and RCCB are discussed below.

MCB-Miniature Circuit Breaker
MCB is an electromechanical device that protects electrical circuits from over current, which can be affected by short circuit, overload or incomplete design. This is a better option for the fuse because once the load is identified, it does not require an alternative. MCBs can be easily rearranged and thus provide better operational protection and greater handiness without having to spend huge operating costs. MCB’s operating operating principle is simple.

MCB function by interrupting the stability of the electrical current through the circuit once the error is detected. In simplest cases this circuit breaker is a switch that regularly closes while passing through the current and passing the maximum allowable limit. Generally, these are designed to protect against current and excessive heat.
MCB is rapidly replacing reusable switch-fuse units for low-power domestic and industrial applications. In the wiring system, the MCB is a combination of all three functions such as short circuit protection, overload and switching. Overload protection using bimetallic bar and short circuit protection by used solenoid.

These are available in different pole versions such as single, double, triple pole and four poles with neutral pole if needed. The typical current rating is in the range of 0.5-63A, at a voltage level of 230 or 440V, with the ability to break short circuits with a symmetry of 3-10 kA.
Characteristics of MCB
The characteristics of the MCB mainly include the following 

• Rated current does not exceed 100 amperes
• Generally, the trip characteristics are not adjustable
• Thermal / thermal magnetic operation

MCCB-Molded Case Circuit Breaker

MCCB is used to control electric energy in N / K distribution and has short circuit and overload protection. This circuit breaker is an electromechanical device that protects the circuit from short circuit and over current. They offer short circuit and over current protection for circuits from Auits Amps to 3000 Amps. The primary functions of the MCCB are to open the circuit manually, meaning to open the circuit circuit or to automatically open the circuit under overload conditions. In electrical circuits, over current can result in faulty design.

The MCCB is an alternative to the fuse as it does not require an alternate once the overload is recorded. Unlike fuses, this circuit breaker can be easily rearranged after a fault and provides operator safety and ease of operation without receiving operating costs. Generally, these circuits have a thermal current for over current and a magnetic element works quickly for short circuit releases.

Characteristics of MCCB
Characteristics of the MCCB mainly include the following

• A range of up to 1000 amperes of rated current
• Trip currents may be adjusted
• Thermal / thermal magnetic operation

ELCB – Earth leakage circuit breaker

ELCB is used to protect the circuit from electrical leakage. When an electric shock occurs, this circuit breaker cuts off power by 0.1 seconds to protect personal safety and to avoid gear from the circuit against short circuit and overload.

ELCB is a security device that is used in electrical systems along with Earth’s earth barriers to prevent shocks. It takes note of the small stray voltage on the metal fields of the electrical gear, and if an insecure voltage is detected the circuit is interrupted. The main principle of earth leakage protection is to prevent injuries to humans and nature due to electric shock.

This circuit breaker is a special type of ling ching relay in which the incoming incoming mains power is connected through its switching contacts so that the circuit breaker disconnects the power supply in an unsafe state.

ELCB It notes fault flows from the live to ground wire within the installation that it is protected. If the voltage breaks out enough to the sensing coil in the circuit breaker, it will shut off the supply, and remain off until reset by hand. The voltage-sensing earth leakage circuit breaker does not detect fault current in any other ground body.

Characteristics of ELCBs
Characteristics of ELCBs mainly include the following

• This circuit breaker connects the phase, earth wires and the neutral
• The function of this circuit breaker depends on the current leakage

RCCB (Residual Current Circuit Breaker)

An RCCB is an essential current sensing device that is used to protect low voltage circuits from fault. This includes switch devices used to shut down the circuit when a circuit malfunction occurs. The RCCB aims to protect individuals from lightning strikes. Fire and electrical causes are caused by improper wiring or any faults on the earth. This type of circuit breaker is used in the event of a sudden shock or malfunction in the circuit.

For example, a person suddenly enters the electrical circuit with an exposed live wire. In that case, in the absence of this circuit breaker, the ground may be faulted and someone is in a dangerous position to take the shock. But, if the same circuit is defended with a circuit breaker, it will visit the circuit in a second, thus keeping the person away from electric shock. Therefore, it is good to install this circuit breaker in the electrical circuit.

Characteristics of RCCBCharacteristics of the RCCB mainly include the following

• Both wires are connected by phase and neutral RCCB
• Whenever a ground fault occurs, it trips the circuit
• The amount of current supply through the line should return by neutral
• This is a very effective form of shock protection

Thus, what is a circuit breaker is about, the difference between MCB, MCCB, ELCB, RCCB and its characteristics. Moreover, any questions related to applying this concept or applying electrical projects, please leave your suggestions, ideas and feedback by commenting in the comment section below. Here is a question for you, what is the main function of circuit breaker?

Share:

Read More

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENTS

Share:

Read More

Wiring a Three Phase Distribution Board

Wiring a Three Phase Distribution Board [DB] is of a necessity when the Power Distribution requirement cannot be handled by a Single Phase Power Supply. Since the Utility distributes power from a Three Phase Transformer, a prime requirement regarded by the Utility company is to make sure that the three phases of the transformers to be balanced in load distribution. Though a 100% balanced load cannot be achieved most of the time, a higher percentage of a balanced load is necessary for the transformer to give the highest efficiency. The consumer has an obligation to have his power utilization in the three phases to be balanced in a praWiring a Three Phase Distribution Board [DB

Wiring a Three Phase Distribution Board [DB] is of a necessity when the Power Distribution requirement cannot be handled by a Single Phase Power Supply. Since the Utility distributes power from a Three Phase Transformer, a prime requirement regarded by the Utility company is to make sure that the three phases of the transformers to be balanced in load distribution. Though a 100% balanced load cannot be achieved most of the time, a higher percentage of a balanced load is necessary for the transformer to give the highest efficiency. The consumer has an obligation to have his power utilization in the three phases to be balanced in a practically acceptable manner. He can achieve this by distributing his Single Phase power loads to the three phases so that a maximum possible load balancing will be achieved inside his premises. The example power distribution cited here for 3 Phases is based on the earlier Single Phase Consumer Unit wiring for ease of understanding.

Installation work described here is according to British Standards [ IEE Regulations and Practice ].

Accessory Requirement

12 Way Three Raw DB with facility to fix a 60A 3 Pole Moulded Case Circuit Breaker-01 nos

2 Pole-60A-30mA Trip Current RCD-03 nos

2 Pole -60A- MCB-03 nos

1 Pole-10A-MCB-15 nos

1 Pole -20A-MCB-6 nos

1 Pole-16A-MCB-3 nos

Cu MCB Bus Bar segment-8 way- 3 nos.

60A- 3 Pole MCCB [fixed type or Adj. Type ]

Bus Bar Link for Neutral Cable Connections

Page Up

Preparation

We are considering that the DB used here will power 5 nos. Lighting Sub Circuits,2 nos 13A Radial Circuits for Socket outlets and 01 nos. 16A Circuit for an AC units on each Phase.That is to say, here we are having a power utilization twice more than in the Single Phase power distribution. But we don't have any Three Phase loads (items using three phase power, for example. 3 ph motors etc) connected to this power distribution.

Method of Wiring

Sub Circuit wiring has been discussed in detail for 1W Light, 2W Light,5A ,13A and 16A Socket outlets etc. These needs to be wired prior to wiring of the DB unit so that when the DB is installed, these circuits can be connected to the DB.

DB Wiring and Installation.

The DB used will either be Surface mount or Flush Mount [ embedded] type. The enclosure will have entry points for connecting feeder cable and sub distribution cables on top and bottom sides. There will be many types of DBs in market but the example used here will enable the practitioner to handle any type with ease.The DB has a DIN rail for installing RCCB,and MCBs. It also has four Cu Connector Bars , three for connecting Neutral cables of the sub circuits of Red, Yellow and Blue phases separately and the other to connect all Earth cables used in socket outlets and electrical lighting fixtures etc. Compare the earlier single phase DB wiring with this one. You will see the similarities between the two in sub circuitctically acceptable manner. He can achieve this by distributing his Single Phase power loads to the three phases so that a maximum possible load balancing will be achieved inside his premises. The example power distribution cited here for 3 Phases is based on the earlier Single Phase Consumer Unit wiring for ease of understanding.

Installation work described here is according to British Standards [ IEE Regulations and Practice ].

Accessory Requirement

12 Way Three Raw DB with facility to fix a 60A 3 Pole Moulded Case Circuit Breaker-01 nos

2 Pole-60A-30mA Trip Current RCD-03 nos

2 Pole -60A- MCB-03 nos

1 Pole-10A-MCB-15 nos

1 Pole -20A-MCB-6 nos

1 Pole-16A-MCB-3 nos

Cu MCB Bus Bar segment-8 way- 3 nos.

60A- 3 Pole MCCB [fixed type or Adj. Type ]

Bus Bar Link for Neutral Cable Connections

Page Up

Preparation

We are considering that the DB used here will power 5 nos. Lighting Sub Circuits,2 nos 13A Radial Circuits for Socket outlets and 01 nos. 16A Circuit for an AC units on each Phase.That is to say, here we are having a power utilization twice more than in the Single Phase power distribution. But we don't have any Three Phase loads (items using three phase power, for example. 3 ph motors etc) connected to this power distribution.

Method of Wiring

Sub Circuit wiring has been discussed in detail for 1W Light, 2W Light,5A ,13A and 16A Socket outlets etc. These needs to be wired prior to wiring of the DB unit so that when the DB is installed, these circuits can be connected to the DB.

DB Wiring and Installation.

The DB used will either be Surface mount or Flush Mount [ embedded] type. The enclosure will have entry points for connecting feeder cable and sub distribution cables on top and bottom sides. There will be many types of DBs in market but the example used here will enable the practitioner to handle any type with ease.The DB has a DIN rail for installing RCCB,and MCBs. It also has four Cu Connector Bars , three for connecting Neutral cables of the sub circuits of Red, Yellow and Blue phases separately and the other to connect all Earth cables used in socket outlets and electrical lighting fixtures etc. Compare the earlier single phase DB wiring with this one. You will see the similarities between the two in sub circuit

Share:

Read More

Share:

Read More

How to wire a 3 way switch

                     Safety
 Working with electricity can be life threatening.
    Consequently, when installing a 3 way light switch make sure you first turn
    power off to the feed line that will power the 3 way light switch. The feed
    line should be turned off at the circuit panel.
 Instructions
    for Installing 3 way Light Switch
 Step 1:
    Run a  feed cable to the first light switch from the bottom of the switch
    box. This is effectively the power feed coming from the circuit panel.
 Step 2:
    Run another cable, known as the traveler between the first switch and the
    light fixture.
 Step 3:
    Run another traveler cable from the light fixture to the second switch.

     

        Find a Qualified Residential Electrical Contractor in Your Area Get Free Quotes.  Easy, Quick and No
    Obligations!
 
For the home improvement or home remodeling project that is
    too big for you, check out our partner NeedContractor. They are a national
    resource for finding pre-screened, insured, and licensed home improvement and remodeling contractors in your local area.
       

     
Step 4:
    A three way switch has a common terminal at the bottom and two traveler
    terminals at the top. Consequently it is wise to have the traveler cables
    come in from the top of the switch boxes. 
 Step 5:
    At the first 3 way switch box, wire the black feed line to the common
    terminal which is on the bottom right.
 Step 6:
    Next wire the black traveler wire (which is referred to as a “hot” wire
    since power is running through it) to the top right traveler terminal using
    a screwdriver.
 Step 7:
    Next wire the red traveler wire (again a “hot” wire) to the left traveler
    terminal.
 Step 8:
    At the first switch box, attach the 12-3 white wire “neutral wire” to the
    12-2 feed neutral wire with wire nuts.   
 Step 9:
    Again, at the first switch box, connect the bare copper ground wires
    together using lineman’s pliers. Twist the copper wires together several
    times and add a copper crimp tube over them.
 Step 10:
    At the light box, again connect the bare copper ground wires together using
    lineman’s pliers. Twist the copper wires together several times and add a
    copper crimp tube over them.
 Step 11:
     At the light box, connect the red wires together with a wire nut.
 Step 12:
    Again, at the light box connect together with a wire nut the black wire
    coming from the first 3 way switch box, and the white wire coming from the
    second 3 way switch box. Since you are connecting a black “hot” wire to a
    white wire that is typically neutral it is important to mark this white wire
    as now “hot”. To do this, attach a piece of black electrical tape on each
    end of the white wire that you connected to the black wire.
 Step 13:
    At the second 3 way light switch attach the white wire (with the black tape
    on it indicating it is now used as a “hot” wire) to the top right traveler
    terminal.
 Step 14:
    At the second 3 way light switch attach the red wire to the top left
    traveler terminal.
 Step 15:
    Again at the second 3 way light switch, connect the black wire to the lower
    right common terminal.
 Step 16:
    Again at the second 3 way light switch, connect together the bare copper
    ground wires. Twist the copper wires together several times and add a copper
    crimp tube over them.
 Step 17:
    With the circuit wired up you should be left with at the light box a white
    wire end (neutral wire) that comes from the first switch box, a black wire
    (hot wire” that comes from the second switch box, and a bare copper ground
    wire (associated with the twisted copper wires coming into the light box
    from the two Romex cables.). These three wires then connect to the light
    fixture. The ground wire connects to the light chassis, and the black wire
    end to one of the light fixture terminals, and the white wire end to the
    other light fixture terminal. Once you have wired the light fixture attach
    it to the light box.
 Step 18:
    Secure the 3 way switches into their switch boxes and attach face covers.
   
 Step 19:
    Power up the switch circuit, back at the circuit breaker panel box. Next,
    test the light. If you followed these instructions perfectly you should have
    a properly working 3 way light switch.

Share:

Read More

How to prevent electric shock.

Working with electricity can be dangerous as electrical shocks can injure and even kill you. Consequently it is important that you exercise some important safety precautions to prevent electrical shock. Chief amongst them is to first turn off power to the electrical circuit you plan on working on at the main circuit breaker panel. Furthermore, place a piece of electrical tape over the turned off circuit breaker to warn anyone that you have purposely turned power off to the circuit. In addition to turning power off to the electrical circuit at the main circuit panel, it is also important to confirm that the power is indeed off at the electrical box itself using a neon bulb tester or multimeter. Occasionally more than one circuit breaker can be feeding power to an electrical outlet or light switch, and thus to prevent electrical shock it is just as important to verify power is off at the electrical box itself. If you need to use a ladder when working on electrical wiring never use an aluminum ladder, as aluminum is a good conductor of electricity. Use a wooden or fiberglass ladder instead. Always wear a pair of good rubber soles shoes as rubber is also a poor conductor of electricity. When it comes to tools, always use screwdrivers and pliers that have insulated handles. Avoid working on electrical circuits in wet or damp areas. Where it cannot be avoided wear rubber boots and gloves. Also, make sure your hands and gloves are dry prior to inserting your hands into an electrical box or appliance. Finally, when working in a wet or damp area, make sure any electrical power tools are plugged into Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets. GFCI’s are designed to quickly turn power off to a circuit if they sense the slightest loss of current in the circuit, thus preventing life threatening electrical shock.

Share:

Read More

Why circuit breakers tripping

Tips for Troubleshooting a Tripped Circuit Breaker.

Circuit breakers are designed to protect you and your home from electrical shock and electrical fires. When either too much electric current, or a sudden loss of current, is sensed by the circuit breaker it trips, which in effect shuts of electricity to the electrical circuit. If an electrical circuit did not employ the use of a circuit breaker, and an electrical short was somehow created in the circuit, either the electrical wiring could heat up until it potentially caused an electrical fire or someone could be electrocuted when they came in contact with the circuit, e.g. turning on a faulty grounded electrical appliance. A circuit breaker can trip for several reasons. The electrical circuit can be overload, there is a ground fault or short circuit condition, or there is loose wiring. The most common cause for a circuit breaker tripping is the circuit is overloaded. When a circuit breaker trips, think about all of the appliances that may have been running on the circuit when it tripped. Try turning them off and resetting the circuit breaker. If the circuit remains on after resetting it, try turning on all of the appliances again to see if the circuit breaker trips again. If it does, use fewer appliances simultaneously or move some of the appliances to different circuits. Never replace a circuit breaker with a higher current rating. An electrical circuit breaker is selected based on the rating of the electrical wire used in the circuit. By installing a higher current rating circuit breaker you run the risk of overheating the electrical wires and causing an electrical fire. A short circuit condition is a more serious and more difficult problem to troubleshoot.
A short circuit occurs when a hot wire (Black or Red) comes in contact with another hot wire or a return wire. They can also be caused by a break in the electrical circuit wiring. When you suspect a short circuit as the culprit to your circuit breaker tripping, check all of the wires associated with the appliances plugged into the outlets on the circuit. Check for melting or burnt wires. Also remove appliances from the circuit by unplugging them. This exercise will help to determine if it is an appliance that is shorting out or the home electrical wiring itself. Also look at the outlets and switches for any dark discoloration. Also smell them for smoke. If you still cannot find the short, call an electrician. The other condition that could be causing a tripped circuit breaker is a ground fault. In a ground fault condition the hot wire has come in contact with a bare copper wire (ground wire) or the side of a metal appliance or electrical box. Check for a ground fault condition as you wood for a short circuit condition. Photo by Mark Donovan A tripped circuit breaker can also be the result of a loose wire. To troubleshoot this type of condition, remove all appliances from the outlets on the circuit to isolate the problem either to the house electrical circuit or one of the appliances. If the circuit breaker no longer trips after removing all the appliances, plug them back in one at a time to see which appliance is the culprit. If the circuit breaker continues to trip after removing the electrical appliances you may want to check the wiring on each outlet to make sure there are no loose wires, wire nuts or terminal screws. Again, you may want to call an electrician at this point.

Share:

Read More

Circuit breaker and panel

An electrical circuit breaker plays an important in your home. It is a safety mechanism for preventing too much current from flowing throu an electrical circuit. Circuit breakers reside in m circuit breaker panels within your home. Main circuit breaker panels are usually found in basements, garages or utility rooms. How a Circuit Breaker Works When more current flows through a wire than w it is rated for it heats up. The wire can get so ho that it actually can cause a fire. unately the circuit breaker can prevent this ation from occurring, by shutting off the power he circuit when too much current begins to flow ough the circuit. advantage of a circuit breaker over its decessor, the fuse, is that it can be reset after it been shut off (or tripped). understand circuit breakers you first need to understand what a circuit is. A circuit is a loop that tains various loads and switches on it, such as lighting, stereo equipment, refrigerators, stoves, se loads are connected into the circuit via electrical outlets and are controlled by switches in so es. There are many electrical circuits within your home. As a matter of fact each circuit breaker in main circuit breaker panel represents a unique circuit. Circuit breakers are installed in series with a circuit. When too much current flows through the wire, due to either too many loads on the circuit, or a faulty load that causes a short circuit, the circuit breaker recognizes this increase of current and immediately is tripped. When it is tripped, the power is shut off to the circuit. When a circuit is tripped, it is important to figure out what caused it to trip. Usually it is associated with too many loads being turned on simultaneously, such as multiple power tools, or even hair dryers operating simultaneously. Sometimes, however it can be a faulty appliance. Once you have figured out the cause and eliminated it from the circuit, for example unplugging some of the loads, or the faulty load from the wall outlet, you can then reset the circuit breaker to restore power to the circuit. There are also ground fault circuit interrupter type circuit breakers (GFCI circuit breakers) for use in bathrooms, kitchens, garages and other areas where there might be water or high moisture levels. They are designed to trip under the slightest rapid current change to prevent serious or life threatening shock.

Share:

Read More

How to install circuit breakers.

Installing a circuit breaker, or replacing a circuit breaker, requires taking the utmost in safety precautions. Included in the circuit panel box is the main circuit breaker that feeds electricity to the various lower amp rated circuit breakers in the box. When installing a circuit breaker always start by turning off the main circuit breaker to the panel. This way power to all of the other circuit breakers in the electrical box are un-powered and safe to touch. This said, you don't want to touch the big metal nodes associated with the main circuit breaker as they are still live, even with the main circuit breaker turned off. Also, before removing a circuit breaker, check what type it is and find a replacement one at your local home improvement center. Make sure to not only get the right physical type circuit breaker but also the same amperage rating as the one you plan to replace in your main circuit panel box. Once you've turned off the main circuit breaker you can remove the gray circuit breaker panel cover to expose all of the breakers. There are usually 4 screws, one in each corner of the cover, that need to be removed. Make sure to use an insulated handled screwdriver when removing these screws. After removing the screws carefully remove the panel cover from the main circuit panel box. Now pull the circuit breaker you want to replace from the bus bar. You'll notice a wire attached to it. It is typically black or red, which signifies that it is a hot wire. Again, use an insulated handled screw driver to disconnect the hot wire from the breaker. You'll also see a white wire and a bare copper ground wire associated with the hot wire, however you can leave these alone as they are not attached to the circuit breaker. Next, using your screw driver attach the hot wire to the replacement circuit breaker. Make sure the screw is fastened tightly to the wire.......

Share:

Read More