Which term describes a device located on top of electric equipment that collects power from the contact wire by means of a collector head assembly?

• A. Ground wire
• B. Impedance Bond
• C. Pantograph
• D. Phase Break

Answer: (C)

Pantograph is the device mounted on the roof of electric locomotives or other electric equipment that collects power from the overhead contact wire. It uses a collector head assembly—often a carbon or metal shoe—that slides along the wire and maintains spring-loaded contact so current can flow into the traction system. This arrangement lets the train draw the electrical power it needs while maintaining a stable connection as speed and alignment change. Other components like a ground wire, impedance bond, or phase break serve different functions in the electrified system (grounding, signaling/return isolation, or phase separation) and do not collect power from the overhead wire.