Electricity was first produced in the late 19th century with the help of electrolytic cells – these worked on a very simple principle of a chemical reactionary process and this meant that the complete process of production and the means of obtaining electricity was and still is, expensive in the present days. The introduction of alternating current (AC) in the US as well as Europe had an added advantage. These systems were utilized in two ways broadly: first, in raising the amount of voltage in the generators and second, the reduction of voltage in the substations by utilizing the transformers that were incorporated in the system. Since voltage is inversely proportional to the current generated, the increase in the amount of voltage meant that the amount of current was automatically reduced to a significant extent. The loss of electrical energy along the distribution lines, especially those that operated along long distances was lessened and this led to a great extent and thus, transmission of power along long distance was made more efficient.
The individuals who opt for a either a full-time, active career in the field of electrical industry or a part-time career for additional income are commonly referred to as electricians. Now, the term “electrician” is a generally a broad-ranged term and may encompass several varied kinds of job profiles associated with the electrical industry. There are the service electricians who most commonly operate on a much lower level and are usually called for offering more individual or personalized services – these may include setting up one or two pre-specified electrical gadgets or appliances, repairing and maintenance of the wiring in any of the small offices, buildings etc. Then comes the construction electricians who are more involved with the electrical works that can be associated with any of the construction sites, including setting up the electrical system of an entire building or a large office area, installation of an entire system of gadgets over a large area.
A gaffer is a person who is actively working as the chief electrician who has to handle all the duties regarding the electrical services, lighting and sound systems as well at times in film or television sets. Theater electricians are often those individuals who have specialized skills in areas like theater lighting, setting up the wiring and other apparatus in the theater area. The set of skills they possess are evidently quite different from those of building or construction electricians.