Characteristics and applications of electrical components used in instrumentation

DOE-STD-1162-2003

Instrumentation and control personnel shall demonstrate a working level knowledge of the

characteristics and applications of electrical components used in instrumentation and

control systems.

Supporting Knowledge and/or Skills

Discuss the various methods through which a supply voltage is converted and/or reduced

for use in an electronic circuit.

Given a schematic diagram of a typical instrumentation and control circuit, identify each

of the following electrical components in the circuit and discuss its function, parameters,

and rating as applicable:

Resistors

Capacitors

Relays

Contacts

Fuses

Switches

Indicating lights

Discuss the application of the various types of circuit breakers and fuses used in the

power supplies to instrumentation and control circuits. Include in this discussion the

circuit requirements for the sizing, ratings, and characteristics of these power-interrupting

devices.

Describe how different types of relays are used in instrumentation and control circuits to

accomplish the following functions. Include in the discussion the relay characteristics

required for each application.

Logic control

Signal isolation

Electrical protection

Electrical switching

Time delays

Alarm annunciation

Indication actuation

Describe the methods and devices used in instrumentation and control circuits to provide

for protection against electrical transients.

Identify and discuss the use of electrical test equipment used to troubleshoot and analyze

instrumentation and control circuit performance.

Describe the requirements for electrical safety class systems.

Discuss the factors to be considered when selecting electrical components for use in

instrumentation and control circuits. Include in the discussion any consideration that must

be given to the environment in which the circuit is required to perform its design

function.