A War of Currents

When Nikola Tesla created alternating current (AC) in the late 1800s, the world didn't realize that electricity was about to change for the better. In fact, businessmen like Thomas Edison, a fellow inventor, tried to discredit Tesla for the discovery since he invested heavily in direct current (DC). In fact, many of Tesla's inventions conflicted with business interests.

What exactly was in AC that gave DC a run for its money? AC traveled in a wave-like motion, moving power more efficiently than DC’s straight-line motion. This innovation meant electricity can be distributed to long distances using low voltages, which is much safer. Tesla demonstrated the safety of AC by using his own body as a conduit to light up lamps.

Safe, Accurate High-voltage Measurements

Regardless of current type, all high-voltage currents pose a significant risk to the life and limbs of the people who work with them. Given this, one might be tempted to think that avoiding high-voltage currents altogether might be best for all involved. However, there are instances when working with high-voltage currents cannot be avoided.

Take for example power transmission. In this application, electricity is raised to a higher voltage to reduce line loss at long distances. Additionally, many industrial devices require higher voltages due to their higher power requirements.