serieschakelend

Serieschakelend is a Dutch-language term used in electrical engineering and automation to describe a method of arranging components and switches so that the elements are controlled in series. In a serieschakelend arrangement, loads or devices are connected end-to-end and share a single electrical path. The controlling element—such as a switch or relay—is placed in the series path, so opening it interrupts current to every load. Because the same current flows through all elements, the total voltage is distributed among them according to their impedances.

In practice, serieschakelend control creates a chain where a single action affects all connected devices. This approach is common in safety interlocks, signaling chains, and situations where a unified shutdown or enablement is required. It can be found in older theater lighting setups, certain instrumentation sequences, and fault-tolerant circuits where a single fault isolates the entire chain.

Advantages of serieschakelend arrangements include simplified wiring and predictable fail-safe behavior: opening any link in the chain de-energizes the entire system. Limitations include sensitivity to the electrical characteristics of all components—the current is the same through each element, so variations in resistance or impedance affect voltage distribution and performance. It is usually less suitable for independent control of multiple loads and can complicate troubleshooting.

See also: series circuit, ladder logic, safety interlock.