Experiment 17 - Practical Comments III (Parallel Circuit)

When using multiple batteries in a parallel circuit, there are again some practical comments...

Use batteries of same voltage

In a parallel circuit of batteries you can only use batteries of the same voltage. In a parallel circuit with batteries of different voltage, the batteries with the lower voltage would be "overwhelmed".

A current would flow in the parallel circuit and the batteries would discharge.

Install fuses

This comment is closely connected with the last comment. Each battery in a parallel circuit should be protected with a fuse. This is to prevent an internal short circuit in the event that a battery fails.

For this reason, parallel circuit of batteries are not widespread. They require a higher level of circuit technology and maintenance.