What is a Short Circuit?

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Thursday, May 08, 2008

A short circuit is simply a low resistance connection between the two conductors supplying electrical power to any circuit. This results in excessive current flow in the power source through the 'short,' and may even cause the power source to be destroyed. If a fuse is in the supply circuit, it will do its job and blow out, opening the circuit and stopping the current flow.

Both a direct and alternating currents (D/C and A/C) can experience a short circuit. In the event that a battery is shorted, it will be discharged very quickly and will heat up due to the high current flow. This could potentially cause the battery to be permanently damaged.

Due to the high power dissipation in the circuit, short circuits can produce very high temperatures. If a charged, high-voltage capacitor is short circuited by a thin wire, the resulting huge current and power dissipation will cause the wire to actually explode.

Thankfully battery packs like Amstron brand are protected with safety features that prevent them from short circuting easily. The outer casing plays a big role in keeping the internal electronics secure and away from any possible conductors. They also contain safety circuits inside that actually turn off the battery pack when it senses an increase in heat caused by a short.

What is a Short Circuit?

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