Component: Wire

 

1) Provides low resistance path for current.

2) Protected by insulated coating.

3) Diameter is expressed as gauge.

4) Large gauge = small wire. Small gauge = large wire. Sorry about that.

4) The smaller the wire, the less current it can handle before melting.

5) In lab we will use 22 gauge solid wire, which fits nicely into the breadboards. 22 gauge wire is rated for 2 amps.

6) Solid wire will break when fatigued and can't carry as much current as stranded wire.

7) Stranded wire is preferred for permanent circuits, as it's more flexible and can carry more current.

 

 

 

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