Which system is characterized as having no direct connection to other electrical sources except through grounding and bonding?

An isolated system is defined by its structural design, which prevents it from having direct electrical connections to other power sources, ensuring that the only link to the rest of the electrical network is through grounding and bonding. This configuration is crucial for safety and reliability in electrical systems, as it helps to minimize the risk of electrical shock and equipment damage due to faults in nearby systems.

When an isolated system is grounded properly, it establishes a safe path for fault currents, thereby protecting both personnel and equipment. By using bonding, the system can help to maintain a stable reference point for voltage levels, enhancing operational safety.

Separately derived systems also have a unique nature in that they generate their own power and may have their own grounding requirements, but the term "isolated" more directly reflects the characteristic of having no direct connection to external sources. This is what makes an isolated system distinctly different in its operational dynamics from other types.