Electrotechnics

Electrotechnics is a branch of science and engineering focused on the study and application of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetism. It encompasses the generation, transmission, distribution, control, conversion, and utilization of electric power, as well as the design and analysis of electronic devices and systems. The field sits at the intersection of electrical engineering and electronic engineering, and is used in some contexts as a broad term for professionals who work with electrical technologies.

Key domains include power engineering, electronics, control systems, telecommunications, electromagnetics, and instrumentation. Core concepts are circuit theory, electromagnetism, signal processing, and semiconductor physics. Practitioners use mathematical tools, simulation, and laboratory testing to design devices and systems such as motors, generators, transformers, power converters, sensors, and integrated circuits.

Typical activities include developing new equipment, modeling and analyzing performance, ensuring safety and compliance with standards, and overseeing manufacture and maintenance. Applications range from electric grids and renewable energy systems to consumer electronics, automotive propulsion, industrial automation, and medical devices.

Standards and safety are guided by organizations such as the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the IEEE; national codes may also apply. Historically, electrotechnics emerged with the practical exploitation of electricity in the late 19th century and continues to evolve with advances in energy storage, power electronics, and digital technologies.

In teaching and research, the term is sometimes used interchangeably with electrical engineering, though electrotechnics can denote the broader, technology-focused domain.