AC and DC

It has been over 100 years since the first DC dynamo’s were built to power electric lights.  Shortly after Edison’s direct current debut, Nicola Tesla and George Westinghouse gave the world AC powered motors.  And the “War of the Currents” has been going on ever since.  Although its been less visible of a ware in recent years.

Some of the crazy publicity stunts conducted during the “War of the Currents” are legendary.  Edison made the claim that the only thing AC power was good for was electrocution of convicted criminals.

AC power won out, of course.  DC power cannot overcome significant losses due to resistance drop over over distance.  And in order for electricity to serve more people, its all about the delivery system. Read more