Electrical Networks Notes

1. Linear and Non Linear Network
2. Bilateral and Unilateral Network
3. Active and Passive Network
4. Lumped and Distributed Network

The behavior of the entire network depends on the behavior and characteristics of its elements. The classification of networks can be shown as,

1. Linear Network : A circuit or network whose parameters i.e. elements like resistances, inductances and capacitances are always constant irrespective of the
change in time, voltage, temperature etc. is known as linear network. The Ohm’s law can be applied to such network. The mathematical equations of such network
can be obtained by using the law of superposition. The response of the various network elements is linear with respect to the excitation applied to them.

Non Linear Network : A circuit whose parameters change their values with change in time, temperature, voltage etc. is known as non linear network . The Ohm’s law
may not be applied to such network. Such network does not follow the law of superposition. The response of the various elements is not linear with respect to
their excitation. The best example is a circuit consisting of a diode where diode current docs not vary linearly with the voltage applied to it.

2. Bilateral Network : A circuit whose characteristics, behavior is same irrespective of the direction of current through various elements of it, is called bilateral network.
Network consisting only resistances is good example of bilateral network.

Unilateral Network : A circuit whose operation, behavior is dependent on the direction of the current through various elements is called unilateral network.
Circuit consisting diodes, which allows flow of current only in one direction is good example of unilateral circuit.

3. Active Network: A circuit which contains at least one source of energy is called active. An energy source may be a voltage or current source.

2. Passive Network: A circuit which contains no energy source is called passive circuit.

4. Lumped Network: A network in which all the network elements arc physically separable is known as lumped network. Most of the electric networks are lumped
in nature, which consists elements like R, L, C, voltage source etc.

5. Distributed Network: A network in which the circuit elements like resistance, inductance etc. cannot be physically separable for analysis purposes, is called
distributed network. The best example of such a network is a transmission line where resistance, inductance and capacitance of a transmission line arc distributed
all along its length and cannot be shown as separate elements, anywhere in the circuit.

Electrical Networks Notes