Branch Circuit Requirements
A building electrical system consists of several circuits that extend out from the
switchboard or panelboard. A branch circuit is that portion of a building wiring system that
extends beyond the final overcurrent protection device that is protecting a circuit. It
provides power from a circuit breaker or fuse in the panelboard to single or multiple points
of use called outlets. An outlet is a point in a wiring system where current is taken to
supply an appliance, piece of equipment, or lighting installation. A branch circuit is
composed of an overcurrent protection device (fuse or circuit breaker), wiring, and one or
more outlets.
