PASCO EM-8677 Series_Parallel Circuit - Manual (Page 5)

Series/Parallel Circuit Model No. EM-8677
4 ®
Introduction
The Series/Parallel Circuit is designed for standard electricity
experiments in the classroom. The board includes three ports (Series,
Parallel, and Common (Ground)), two switches, and two 12-volt light
bulbs. The board can be connected to a power source or generator,
such as PASCO’s Hand-Crank Generator (EM-8090).
Opening and Closing the Switches
In the Series/Parallel
Circuit, the switch is a
metal lever that can be
manually moved up and
down inside a metal clip
(See Figure 1). In an
electrical path, a closed
switch allows current
travel and an open
switch stops current
travel. To open a switch, move the handle up out of the clip. To close
the switch, use the handle to move the lever down into the metal clip.
(The lever must snap shut against the metal clip for the switch to be
closed.)
Operation Procedure
1. Place the Series/Parallel Circuit on a non-conductive surface, such as a
wooden table. With the power source turned off and switches open,
connect the ground lead of the power source to the COMMON port.
WARNING: Do not use a power source greater than 12 volts
with the Series/Parallel Circuit. Exceeding the voltage is hazardous
and may destroy, melt, or burn components in the circuit board.
2. For current travel through the series circuit: Connect the positive
lead of the power source to the SERIES port. Close Switch 1 and
keep Switch 2 open. (See Figure 2 on page 6 for a schematic of the
electrical pathway.)
OR
Figure 1: Open and closed switch
Open
switch
metal clip
Closed
switch
WARNING: The Series/
Parallel Circuit has
conductive properties.
Treat the circuit board as
you would other
conductors. Do not use
the circuit board around
water or place on other
conductive surfaces,
especially when the board
is connected to a power
source. Always connect
the ground lead to the
COMMON port and
inform your students of
standard electrical safety
precautions. PASCO
cannot be held responsible
for negligent safety
practices in the classroom.