Jim Dollard has an extensive background in codes and standards. Send questions about the National Electrical Code (NEC) to Jim at codefaqs@gmail.com. Answers are based on the 2020 NEC. Dedicated spaces for vaccinations In a...
Before we move on, there is one last definition to review as we cover the upcoming changes in the 2023 National Electrical Code. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). This term has been used in the NEC ; NFPA 99, Health Care...
In last month’s column, I explained the proper use of the term “panelboards,” which are the interior busing and breaker terminations covered by parts I and III of Article 408. That article was more involved in covering the...
Premises electrical distribution systems in outside buildings, structures or facilities are often delivered at high- or medium-voltage levels by the serving utility, depending on the area. The purpose of transformers is to...
While listening to a podcast recently, the speaker quoted philosopher Epictetus: “It is impossible for a man to learn what he thinks he already knows.” Epictetus was alive from 50-135 A.D., and it amazes me that what someone...
Basic electrical theory is that the greater the load is, the greater the current. Normally, the current flows through conductors and various electrical components, but what if the current takes a different path? What if it...
Jim Dollard has an extensive background in codes and standards. Send questions about the National Electrical Code (NEC) to Jim at codefaqs@gmail.com. Answers are based on the 2020 NEC. Office partitions Can free-standing...
Not long ago, when a manufacturer decided to upgrade an assembly line, the power supply to a steel-bending machine needed an essential feature. Surge protection was required to prevent electrical damage to the machine’s...
There is still more to report On in Article 100. As you look through the 2023 National Electrical Code — or review the first and second draft reports online—you will see there were many definition changes. However, most...
Many people refer to the enclosure and the interior panelboard as a “panelboard.” Panelboards do not include the enclosure or cabinet, so this is a misappropriation of a more complex application and piece of equipment...
Early 2022 has brought unusual electrical troubleshooting calls similar to what ERs and jails experience before or during full moons. Though scientifically unsubstantiated, many people working in such environments will tell...
I conducted a courtesy electrical inspection for a friend who had purchased a home from a real estate agent, who previously owned and occupied it. The house had supposedly been totally rewired by an “electrician” in the year...
In last month’s column, “Dedicated IT Rooms,” I explored the code rules for IT equipment facilities, where isolated grounding circuits and receptacles are often installed to reduce electromagnetic interference in grounding...
Over the long history of the National Electrical Code, there have been numerous changes to how we use different wiring systems. Those electrical industry long-timers may have historical knowledge of the reasons for various...
Jim Dollard has an extensive background in codes and standards. Send questions about the National Electrical Code (NEC) to Jim at codefaqs@gmail.com. Answers are based on the 2020 NEC. NM vs. UF cable in a barn During...
Let’s continue our review of the significant changes in the 2023 National Electrical Code . This article examines some of the new and modified definitions in Article 100. As I indicated in part two of this series, there were...
In the 2005 National Electrical Code, Article 430 was rearranged to make requirements on adjustable-speed motor drives more detailed and easier to locate in the new Part X. These requirements were previously scattered...
In large facilities, it is common for IT equipment to be arranged in a single room or data center. Depending on the extent of the business’ IT needs, an entire building may be constructed for this purpose and designed to meet...
The National Electrical Safety Code and National Electrical Code are similar in their overall purpose and safe electrical installations. They also overlap in some respects as applied to properties and premises wiring systems...
The NEC rules often determine which electrical systems must be grounded, which are permitted to be grounded and which are not permitted to be grounded. The provisions are broken down for each system application. Part II of...
