Radial Circuits - Adding Socket Outlets

Branch or Tree

Example of a branch or tree circuit This mess is a variation on the radial circuit. Note that there is still only one cable from the consumer unit, but it branches along the way. Sometimes referred to as a tree or branch circuit.

A new circuit should never be designed in this way, but alterations and additions to existing radial circuits can result in this type of arrangement.

Problems

The main problem here is that it is difficult to identify which socket outlet represents the end of the circuit - this example has three 'ends'. Some socket outlets have two cables, some have one and some have three. Trying to work out the circuit layout when this mess is installed in a building will be difficult and time consuming.

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