Types of Electrical Networks

TYPES OF ELECTRICAL NETWORKS

Electrical network can be classified according to the network characteristics and behaviour.

Linear Network

A circuit or network whose parameters i.e., elements like resistors, inductors and capacitors are always constant irrespective of the change in time, voltage, temperature etc., is known as linear network. In linear network, the Ohm's law can be applied and Superposition theorem can be used for solving mathematical equations.

Non Linear Network

A circuit whose parameters change their values with change in time, temperature, voltage etc., is known as non linear network. Ohm's law and law of Superposition do not applicable for this network.

Bilateral Network

A circuit whose characteristics, behaviour is same irrespective of the direction of current through various elements of it, is called bilateral network. Network consisting only resistors is good example of bilateral network.

Unilateral Network

A circuit whose operation, behaviour is dependent on the direction of the current through various elements is called unilateral network. Example for unilateral network is half wave diode rectifier.

Active Network

A circuit which contains a source of energy is called active network. Voltage and current sources are energy sources.

Passive Network

A circuit which contains no energy source is called passive circuit. The passive network contains resistor, capacitor and inductor.

Lumped Network

A network in which all the network elements are physically separable is known as lumped network. Most of the electrical networks are lumped networks.

Distributed Network

A network in which the circuit elements like resistor, inductor, etc., cannot be physically separable for analysis purpose, is called distributed network.

For example, a transmission line where resistance, inductance and capacitance are distributed all along its length. It cannot be shown as a separate element, anywhere in the circuit.