Parallel Slave Port (PSP)

The Parallel Slave Port (PSP) is a feature found in some Microchip PIC microcontrollers, particularly in the PIC16 and PIC18 families. It allows the microcontroller to interface with external devices in a…

Difference between ARM and Thumb states (ARM vs. thumb)

In ARM-based processors, ARM and Thumb states serve different purposes, primarily affecting code size and memory efficiency. The ARM state operates with a full 32-bit RISC instruction set, while the…

Understanding Issues with Contactors and Relays

Contactors and relays are essential components in electrical systems, used to control circuits by opening and closing contacts. Despite their similarities, they serve different purposes and face distinct issues. In…

Sinking and Sourcing Concepts and their differences

Sourcing and sinking are the core terms of PLC wiring and can greatly affect the reliability and functionality of your control system. In this article, we will explore these fundamental…

Differences between GTO and SCR

Gate turn-off thyristors (GTO) and Silicon controlled rectifiers (SCR) are semiconductor switching devices used in converters, rectifiers, charging circuits, etc. in order to control the current flow. This article illustrates…

Difference between AC contactors and DC contactors

The AC contactors differ from the DC contactors in their construction, arc extinction, and usage in a circuit. In this article, let us discuss the major differences between AC contactors…

Ingress protection rating or IP rating (IEC 60529)

IEC 60529 has classified the degree of protection offered by an enclosure against solid particles and liquid. This classification is known as the ingress protection code/ IP code/ IP rating/…

Are earthing and grounding the same?

Ground and/or Earth are generally used to define a common reference point for power/signal. While IEC (IEV ref 195-01-01) defines this reference point as earth, IEEE (Standard Std 142-2007) defines…

Neutral-to-Earth/ground Voltage- Causes, effects, and solution

Image source: electronics.stackexchange.com Ideally, the voltage measured across the neutral and the earth/ground must be zero. But sometimes there exists some measure of potential difference between them. Here, in this…

Difference between grounding/earthing and bonding

Earthing and bonding are two terms very closely related but are different. Even though earthing and bonding are meant to prevent electric shock, they have a subtle difference that needs…