NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

What is the primary function of a panel-board?

1. A single panel for assembling electrical devices

2. A container for electrical safety equipment

3. A designated area for electrical wiring connections

4. A control center for light, heat, or power circuits

The correct answer is: A control center for light, heat, or power circuits

The primary function of a panel-board is to act as a control center for light, heat, or power circuits. It serves as the distribution point where electricity is redistributed to various circuits within a structure. This is achieved through circuit breakers or fuses mounted within the panel-board, which protect each circuit from overload and short circuits while allowing for the safe operation of electrical devices and systems. Panel-boards ensure that electricity is safely and efficiently managed from the main electrical supply to multiple branch circuits, controlling and monitoring the distribution of power. This functionality is crucial in residential, commercial, and industrial setups to maintain proper electrical management and safety standards. Other options may reference components that could relate to electrical systems, but they do not capture the comprehensive role of a panel-board in managing and distributing electrical power within a space.