Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th ed

Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th ed

Price: $358.99
The Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th Edition is an industrial standard for over thirty years, has been updated to provide your students with the most current information available on the essentials of alternating current. The topics in this book are arranged to build your student's knowledge, progressing from basic principles such...

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Book Overview

The Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th Edition is a comprehensive technical textbook that has been an industry standard for over thirty years. It is published by Cengage (Delmar) and is aimed at students, electrical technicians, apprentices, and professionals needing a solid grounding in alternating current (AC) theory, circuits, equipment, and applications. 

This edition builds knowledge progressively: it starts with basic concepts such as the difference between peak, RMS (root mean square), and average values, as well as generation of alternating voltage, waveforms, frequency, and phase relationships. From there, it moves into more complex topics including circuits with resistance, inductance, and capacitance; series, parallel, and series-parallel AC circuits; resonance; and impedance. 

The text also includes detailed sections on three-phase systems, AC instrumentation and measurement, generators, transformers (single phase and three phase), special transformer applications, three-phase induction motors, synchronous motors, single-phase motors, and control circuits. It integrates applied examples so that learners can see how the theory translates into real-world practice. 

Key aspects:

  • Foundational Coverage of AC Theory
  • Comprehensive Circuit Analysis
  • Three-Phase Power Systems
  • Electrical Machines and Equipment
  • Instrumentation & Measurement
  • Power Electronics Elements
  • Practical and Real-World Application
  • Code Compliance and Safety
  • Instructional Support & Practice

Highlights:

  • Additional content on diodes and rectifiers, expanding the coverage into more modern power electronics elements.
  • Improved graphics and illustrations to help clarify and visually support the concepts. 
  • Written to reflect the latest electrical codes (notably, the NFPA 70 / National Electrical Code) to ensure relevance to current practice. 
  • Clear Visual Aids rich with diagrams, circuit illustrations, and phasor charts to enhance comprehension of complex AC phenomena.

Key Features & Benefits

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Comprehensive Coverage:

The Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th Edition provides a deep, structured, and thorough presentation of all critical aspects of AC electrical theory and application. It is organized to take learners from foundational principles to more advanced systems, making it suitable for beginners, apprentices, and advanced students or technicians preparing for licensing exams or careers in electrical trades. Areas of Comprehensive Coverage:

  • Basic AC Theory
  • AC Circuit Components
  • Circuit Configurations & Analysis
  • Three-Phase Systems
  • Transformers
  • AC Machines
  • Measurement & Instrumentation
  • Power Electronics Introduction
  • Application to Industry & Trade
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Practical Application:

The Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th Edition equips students and professionals with the knowledge to apply AC electrical principles in real-world settings. It bridges the gap between classroom learning and fieldwork by incorporating practical examples, diagrams, and problem-solving approaches used in everyday electrical work. This book is not just a theory text — it’s built to prepare students for the technical demands of the electrical field, especially in:

  • Industrial maintenance
  • Electric motor control
  • HVAC systems
  • Generator and transformer work
  • Commercial power systems

If you’re studying for a certification, entering the field, or teaching electrical trades, this practical approach makes the book especially valuable.

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Licensing Exam Preparation:

The Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th Edition is an excellent resource for individuals preparing for electrical licensing exams, such as journeyman or master electrician certifications. Its content is structured to align with the core topics covered on most licensing tests, including AC circuit analysis, RLC circuits, phasor relationships, power factor correction, transformers, motors, and three-phase systems. The book integrates the application of the National Electrical Code (NEC), which is a key component of many state and national exams. Each chapter includes worked-out examples and end-of-section practice problems that mirror the types of questions found on licensing tests, helping learners build confidence and test-taking proficiency. With its clear explanations, problem-solving strategies, and visual aids like diagrams and phasor charts, the book not only reinforces theoretical knowledge but also emphasizes practical understanding — an essential combination for passing licensing exams and succeeding in the electrical field.

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Visual & Organizational Tools:

The Alternating Current Fundamentals, 8th Edition employs a variety of visual and organizational tools to enhance learning, comprehension, and retention of complex electrical concepts. The textbook is richly illustrated with detailed diagrams, phasor charts, waveform illustrations, and circuit schematics that visually explain the behavior of alternating current systems. These visuals help bridge the gap between abstract theory and real-world application, making it easier for learners to grasp phase angles, impedance, resonance, and power relationships.

  • Organizationally, the book follows a clear and logical structure — starting from basic AC principles and progressing toward advanced topics like three-phase systems and AC machines. Each chapter begins with a set of learning objectives and ends with a summary, key terms, and review questions, making it easy for students to focus their studies and reinforce what they’ve learned. Worked-out examples are presented throughout the text using a step-by-step format, helping learners follow the problem-solving process with clarity.
  • Tables, charts, and boxed notes are also used to highlight formulas, units, and safety tips. These tools support quick reference and are especially helpful for exam preparation and on-the-job recall. Together, these visual and organizational elements make the book both a strong educational tool and a useful reference for apprentices, technicians, and instructors alike.
Publisher Information

Stephen L. Herman is a veteran electrical instructor with decades of teaching experience, particularly at Lee College in Baytown, Texas. He has authored numerous widely used textbooks in electrical education, focusing on both theory and practical application. His work is known for clear explanations, industry relevance, and strong alignment with national electrical codes and licensing exam requirements.

Other Works

Book Details
  • Publisher:  Cengage Learning
  • Edition/Release Date: 8th Edition, January 1, 2011
  • ISBN: 9781111125271
  • Pages: 768
  • Dimensions: 8.5 x 11 inches
  • Format: Paperback / Softbound
  • Target Audience: Professionals
Pricing & Purchase Information

• Price: $358.99


• Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $250.
• Formats Available: Physical Book

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