DETECTA-DUCT® - Traffic signal inductance loop detector wire. Detecta-Duct® is a trademark of the Standard Wire & Cable Co.
DIA. - Abbreviation for diameter.
DIELECT. - Abbreviation for dielectric. See dielectric.
DIELECTRIC - Any insulating material that is a nonconductor of electricity. Abbreviated as dielect.
DIELECTRIC ABSORPTION - That property of an imperfect dielectric whereby there is an accumulation of electric charge within the body of the material when it is placed in an electric field.
DIELECTRIC CONSTANT - The factor by which the electric field strength in a vacuum exceeds that in the dielectric for the same distribution of charge. Symbol K. The K for air is 1.0.
DIELECTRIC STRENGTH - The maximum potential gradient (volts per mil) a dielectric will stand without breaking down the voltage stress required to puncture an insulation of known thickness (in volts per unit, usually volts per mil.)
DIELECTRICLOSS - Energy dissipated as heat when the dielectric is placed in a varying electric field.
DIGITAL - Of or relating to calculation by numerical methods or by discrete units. Opposite - analog.
DIODE - Any electronic device that has only two electrodes. There are several different types of diodes, their voltage characteristics determining their application. Diodes are most commonly used as rectifiers.
DIRECT BURIAL CABLE - A cable installed directly in the earth without use of an underground conduit. Also called "burial cable".
DIRECT CURRENT - A direct current is one which flows in one direction. Further classifications of direct currents are: a) Continuous currents which are steady, non pulsating direct currents: b) Constant currents, which continue to flow for a considerable time in the same direction and with unvarying intensity; and c) Pulsating currents, which are regularly varying continuous currents. Abbreviations DC and dc.
