Title: Describe the aircraft electrical system and circuitry.
Course: Aircraft Pilot Training I (20053-I) > Section: Understanding Aircraft Systems: Electrical System

Description should include the following concepts:

- Any circuit that includes a switch (or other control or measuring indicator) is a series circuit.
- Most aircraft are equipped with either a 14- or a 28-volt direct current (DC) electrical system.
- A basic aircraft electrical system consists of
  - alternator/generator
  - battery
  - master/battery switch
  - alternator/generator switch
  - bus bar, fuses, and circuit breakers
  - voltage regulator
  - ammeter/load-meter
  - associated electrical wiring.
- Engine-driven alternators or generators supply electric current to the electrical system. They also maintain a sufficient electrical charge in the battery.
- Electrical energy stored in a battery provides a source of electrical power for starting the engine and a limited supply of electrical power for use in the event the alternator or generator fails.

PLT107 and PLT207

Process/Skill Questions:

- What is a series circuit?
- What is an alternator, and what is its function?