What practice is critical before switching power sources according to electrical standards?

Synchronization is a crucial practice before switching power sources to ensure a seamless transition and prevent damage to electrical systems. When multiple power sources, such as generators or shore power, are used, it is essential that their output voltages, frequencies, and phase angles match. If these parameters are not properly aligned, connecting two different power sources could result in significant electrical disturbances, such as voltage spikes or frequency mismatches, which may lead to equipment failure or hazardous conditions.

Careful synchronization allows for smooth integration of power sources, minimizing the risk of electrical shock, equipment damage, or system instability. This process typically involves monitoring and adjusting the parameters of the incoming power source until they align with the operating conditions of the existing source.

While other practices like load balancing, isolation of circuits, and voltage verification are important in their own right, they do not specifically address the critical need to ensure compatibility between power sources during power switching. Load balancing focuses on distributing electrical loads across multiple circuits, isolation ensures safety by disconnecting circuits from the power source, and voltage verification ensures that power supply voltage meets specified levels. However, all these measures cannot substitute the necessity of synchronization for effective power management during source switching.