Electrical devices refer to appliances that convert electrical energy to other forms of energy, such as light energy, heat, sound, kinetic energy, and many more.
They rely on transformed energy to drive their core parts.
Examples of electrical devices include:
- Electric motors
- Transformers
- Electric heaters
- Light bulbs
- Ceiling fans
- Vacuum cleaners
- Washing machines
- Toasters and others.
What is an electronic device?
Electronic devices are components that control the flow of electrical currents for information processing and system control.
Instead of transforming electrical energy into other forms of energy, as in electrical device, electronic device manipulate those currents into doing interesting and useful things.
Examples of electronic devices
- Amplifier
- Computer
- Television
- Mobile phone
- Microprocessor
- Diode
- Transistors and so forth
Difference between electronic and electrical devices
| Electrical device | Electronic device |
| 1. Convert electrical energy to other forms of energy | Use electrical energy to process information. |
| 2. Use alternate current (AC) | Use direct current (DC). |
| 3. Work with high voltage | Work with low voltage |
| 4. Consume more power and space | Consume less power and space. |
| 5. Do not manipulate data | Manipulates data |
| 6. Uses aluminium and copper wires to conduct current | Uses semiconductor for the transmission |
| 7. High conductivity | Low conductivity |
| 8. More dangerous and can cause electrical hazards | Less dangerous as it uses low voltage. |
What is Electrical equipment?
Electrical equipment comprises both the electrical and electronic devices, apparatus, fittings, appliances, wiring, or material used as part of or in connection with an electrical installation.
It includes a wide range of equipment, such as power switches, stockades, and electrical components.
Examples of electrical equipment
They include:
Electrical components such as
- Transformers
- Switches
- Isolators
- Fuses
- Circuit breakers
- Electric motors
- Electric meters
- Distribution boards.
Electric powered machines like
- washing machine
- Cooker
- Refrigerator
- Freezer
- Water heater
- Air conditioner
- Clothes drier
- Dishwasher
- Microwave oven
- Fan
- Electric heater.
- Printers
- Computers.
Difference between electrical tools and equipment
The difference between electrical tools and equipment lies in their usage. But before looking at their differences, let us understand their meaning.
Electrical tools refer to the devices we use for electrical installation and repairs. It is not consumed in the work. Examples include screwdrivers, pliers, multimeters, tapes, and others.
While equipment refers to a set of tools or objects used to achieve a particular goal. Examples include transformers, computers, electric motors, etc.
The difference between electrical tools and equipment lies in their usage. Electrical tools are multipurpose and can even be used to install equipment. While equipment serves a particular purpose.