Basic DC Theory
DC CIRCUIT FAULTS
Open Circuit (Parallel)
A parallel circuit has more than one path for current to flow. If one of the paths is opened,
current will continue to flow as long as a complete path is provided by one or more of the
remaining paths. It does not mean that you cannot stop current flow through a parallel circuit
by opening it at one point; it means that the behavior of a parallel circuit depends on where the
opening occurs (Figure 54).
Figure 54 Open Parallel Circuit - Total
If a parallel circuit is opened at a point where only a branch current flows, then only that branch
is open, and current continues to flow in the rest of the circuit (Figure 55).
Figure 55 Open Parallel Circuit - Branch
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