Electric circuits - introduction

The course provides basic knowledge of circuit analysis for linear physical energy systems. Analysis and measurement of electrical energy circuits is the main focus of the course, but the circuit concept and analysis techniques will also be applicable to other physical domains. The course covers DC circuits, introduces AC signals and simple rectifiers.

Items in the subject:

• Direct current and voltage, resistance, power and energy.
• Component characteristics of voltage sources, current sources, resistance, inductance, capacitance, switches/diodes, ideal operational amplifier and ground.
• Ohm's law as well as Kirchhoff's current law and voltage law.
• Different methods of linear circuit analysis; for example source transformation, circuit simplifications, node analysis, loop analysis, superposition, as well as Thevenin and Norton equivalent.
• Transient analysis (switching on and off) in RL, RC and RLC circuits
• Analogies between electrical circuits and other physical systems
• Introduction of alternating current and voltage (AC signals)
• Simple diode circuits and diode rectifiers
• Sustainability in connection with electrical systems and components.
• Brief historical development in circuit theory
• Hand calculation and simulation/calculation using digital tools.
• Group work, laboratory work and documentation of this.

The student must understand:

• How to apply basic analysis techniques to electrical circuits.
• Analogies between electrical circuits and other physical domains
• Safety in the lab, physical circuit connections and troubleshooting, as well as the use of measuring instruments.

The student must be able to:

• Use network theorems, component characteristics and fundamental laws in electrical circuit theory to calculate parameters in systems with a selection of components.
• Carry out system analyzes using hand calculations and simulations, as well as practical connection and measurement in the lab.
• Connect simple circuits according to given specifications. Measure electrical values using a multimeter and oscilloscope.
• Use various circuit components to create circuits with desired properties.
• Carry out and document group work/laboratory work.

After completing the course, the candidate has the general competence to:

1. Use basic laws and analysis methods from this subject in later parts of the candidate's studies and in work situations.
2. Know Norwegian and English technical terms for methods/techniques, components/ parameters , measuring units etc.
3. Use a simulation tool for the analysis of simple energy systems.
4. Follow safety instructions for laboratory work.
5. Document laboratory work.

The learning activities will be a combination of lectures and student-centered learning activities.

Obligatory activites: Laboratory work and exercises.

Some of the teaching activities may be taught in English.