What is an Electronic Component? 7 Basic Components That Help Power Our World

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Electronic components can be found in nearly every device that we interact with. They are essential for a wide array of gadgets worldwide—ranging from military jet engines to smart home devices and automobiles to simply switching on a light. With the evolution of electronic devices over the past century, electronics have become increasingly complex and must also be highly reliable. But what exactly is an electronic component?

Electronic components are the building blocks used in devices that create electronic circuits. They modify the electric current so it can transmit information and support the functions of the circuit. Generally, these components can be categorized into two types: active components and passive components. Let’s examine what each entails and some of the most common electronic components that significantly contribute to powering our world.

Active Components are Found in Every Electronic Device

Active components supply energy to the circuit and have the capability to electrically control and amplify the flow of electrical current. While most devices contain both active and passive components, every electronic circuit must consist of at least one active component. Active components typically require a source of energy, usually in the form of direct current. Most active components involve semiconductor devices such as transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits.

1. Transistor

A transistor is primarily used for amplifying electrical signals or functioning as a switch. They can be identified by their three terminals and can be likened to a relay with no moving parts, as they can turn something "on" and "off" without any movement.

2. Diode

A diode allows electric current to flow only in one direction. It consists of two terminals: the anode and cathode. When the anode is charged with a positive voltage and the cathode with a negative one, current can flow. Reversing the voltages will block current flow, effectively acting as a one-way valve. Diodes are commonly used to convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC) and are typically made of semiconductor materials or vacuum tubes.

3. Integrated Circuit (IC) (AKA Microchip)

Integrated circuits (ICs) consist of multiple complex circuits on a single circuit board and are used for a wide range of tasks. Despite containing many components, they are still classified as a single component. ICs are made up of tiny, flat pieces of silicon layered with various electronic components like transistors.

Passive Components Dissipate, Resist, or Store Energy

Passive components can only receive energy, which they either dissipate, resist, absorb, or store in an electric or magnetic field; they cannot control or amplify electricity. Common examples include resistors, capacitors, inductors, and transformers.

1. Resistor

A resistor is a two-terminal electrical device that resists current flow. It is one of the simplest yet most essential elements in an electronic circuit, as resistance is fundamental in nearly all electronic circuits. Resistors are rated based on their power ratings (the amount of power they can handle without burning out) and resistance values (their capacity to resist current). The measurement is expressed in units known as ohms.

2. Capacitor

Capacitors, with two terminals, can temporarily store electrical charge in an electric field and release it later when needed. They allow AC to flow while resisting DC, stabilizing almost any circuit. Capacitors come in various types, including electrolytic and ceramic disk capacitors.

3. Inductor (AKA Reactor)

An inductor, or reactor, is a two-terminal component that stores energy in a magnetic field and returns energy to the circuit as needed. It permits DC to flow through but blocks AC. Composed of coiled wire wound around a core—either of magnetic material or air—inductors are fundamental to many circuits.

4. Transformers

Transformers are electronic components used to change voltage levels. They can either step up or step down voltage, while power and energy remain consistent on the primary and secondary side. Since energy is not amplified, a transformer is considered a passive element.

Putting It All Together

Electronic components collectively power the devices we use daily—from computers and cars to complex industrial machinery, medical equipment, military vehicles, and more.

As the demand for reliable electronic devices grows, particularly with the ongoing semiconductor chip shortage, so does the need for dependable electronic components. Area51 Electronics is a trusted global distributor of electronic, electrical, and electromechanical components, hardware, and assemblies. We specialize in authorized manufacturer lines and are independent distributors of hard-to-find, obsolete (end-of-life) verified components. Area51 Electronics is committed to delivering, protecting, and advancing technology standards in the supply chain and our communities that keep our world powered.

Sparking an understanding of the basic electronic components that influence so many facets of modern life fosters a greater appreciation for these small yet significant parts. After all, without them, you wouldn't be able to read this!

How Electronic Components Work

How Electronic Components Work

Electronic gadgets have become integral to our lives, enhancing comfort and convenience. Their applications range from aviation to the medical field, highlighting the intertwined nature of the electronics and computer revolutions.

Most gadgets incorporate tiny electronic circuits that control machines and process information. In essence, these electronic circuits are vital for the functioning of various electrical appliances. This guide explains common electronic components used in electronic circuits and their functioning.

This article will outline electronic circuit principles, detailing seven different component types. For each type, we'll explore its composition, functionality, and significance.

Electronic Circuit Overview

An electronic circuit is a framework that directs and controls electric current to perform functions such as signal amplification, computation, and data transfer. It comprises different components like resistors, transistors, capacitors, inductors, and diodes. These components are interconnected using conductive wires or traces, but a complete circuit must start and end at the same point, forming a loop.

The Elements of an Electronic Circuit

The complexity and number of components in an electronic circuit might vary based on its application. However, the simplest circuit includes three essential elements: a conducting path, a voltage source, and a load.

Element 1: Conducting Path

The conducting path is where electric current flows. Typically, this is achieved via copper wires, but conductive traces—copper sheets laminated onto a non-conductive substrate—are becoming more popular, especially in small and complex circuits like Printed Circuit Boards (PCB).

Element 2: Voltage Source

The primary purpose of a circuit is to safely allow electric current to flow. Thus, the voltage source is the first key element. It consists of a two-terminal device, such as a battery or generator, that supplies potential difference (voltage) between two circuit points, enabling current flow.

Element 3: Load

A load consumes power in a circuit to perform a specific function. A light bulb exemplifies a simple load, while more complex circuits might include loads like resistors, capacitors, and transistors.

Electronic Circuit Facts

Fact 1: Open Circuit

A circuit must always form a loop for current to flow through it. Open circuits fail in this regard, as one or more components are disconnected intentionally (e.g., a switch) or accidentally (e.g., a broken part).

Fact 2: Closed Circuit

A closed circuit forms a loop without any interruptions, making it the direct opposite of an open circuit. Nevertheless, a complete circuit that doesn’t function (e.g., connected to a dead battery) is still considered closed.

Fact 3: Short Circuit

A short circuit occurs when a low-resistance connection forms between two points in an electric circuit. This connection causes current to flow through it instead of following the designated path, which can cause dangerous levels of current that may damage equipment and increase the risk of fire.

Fact 4: Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Most electronic devices require complex circuits, necessitating the arrangement of tiny components on circuit boards. These boards consist of plastic with copper tracks and holes for component attachment. When a circuit board's layout is chemically printed onto a plastic base, it becomes a printed circuit board (PCB).

Fact 5: Integrated Circuits (ICs)

While PCBs offer numerous advantages, modern devices like computers and mobile phones require intricate circuits containing thousands or even millions of components. This is where integrated circuits (ICs) come in. ICs are compact electronic circuits embedded in small silicon chips that enhance device efficiency while minimizing size and manufacturing costs. Over time, ICs have evolved into increasingly complex forms, resulting in greater affordability and capabilities for personal computers, laptops, and smartphones.

Electronic Components

Modern technology has automated the process of building electronic circuits, especially for ICs and PCBs. The number and arrangement of components may vary by complexity, but a small number of standard components are typically involved in their construction.

The following components are used to build electronic circuits:

Component 1: Capacitor

Capacitors are utilized in various electronic circuits. As passive two-terminal devices, they can store energy electrostatically in an electric field. Essentially, they act like mini rechargeable batteries—able to charge and discharge swiftly.

A. Composition

Capacitors come in numerous shapes and sizes, but they generally share primary components: two electrical conductors or plates separated by a dielectric or insulator. The plates consist of conducting materials like thin metal films or aluminum foil, while dielectrics can be non-conductive materials like glass, ceramic, or plastic. Connections extending from the plates enable the capacitor's installation in a circuit.

B. How Does It Work?

Total capacitance reflects the energy a capacitor can store. When voltage is applied over the plates, an electric field develops across the insulator. This causes one plate to accumulate a positive charge while the opposite plate collects a negative charge. Even after disconnection from the source, the capacitor holds this charge, which can be released to the connected load when required. The capacity to hold energy increases with proximity between plates or their size, as well as enhanced insulation quality.

C. Function and Significance

Capacitors, displaying functionalities similar to batteries, offer various roles in circuits: blocking direct current while facilitating alternating current, smoothening power supply output, and stabilizing voltage in electric transmission systems. Their critical role in AC systems includes power factor correction, essential for sufficient starting torque in single-phase motors.

Filters Capacitor Applications

When employing a microcontroller in a circuit, maintaining stable voltage is crucial to prevent restarts. Capacitors are leveraged to provide necessary power momentarily, filtering out line noise and stabilizing energy delivery.

Hold-Up Capacitor Applications

Unlike batteries, capacitors release charge quickly, making them suited for short power provision in circuits, such as powering camera flash operations.

Timer Capacitor Applications

In resonant or time-sensitive circuits, capacitors synchronize their charge and discharge timing, influencing circuit operations.

Component 2: Resistor

Resistors are passive two-terminal electrical devices that resist current flow—one of the simplest yet essential elements in electronic circuits, as resistance is an intrinsic property in most setups. They are commonly color-coded for identification.

A. Composition

A resistor typically consists of a copper wire wrapped around an insulating material like ceramic. Resistance correlates with the number of turns and thinness of the copper wire, resulting in higher resistance with more turns and finer wire. Additionally, you may encounter carbon film resistors designed for lower-power circuits.

B. How Does It Work?

Resistors serve to control voltage and current within a circuit. When electrons traverse a narrow conductor, the flow continues, while resistance restricts it, analogous to water in a pipe.

C. Function and Significance

Key resistor applications include current flow management, voltage division, and resistor-capacitor (RC) networks.

Limiting the Flow of Current

Absence of resistors may result in dangerously high current levels that can cause overheating and damage. For example, an LED connected directly to a battery may burn out if no resistor is employed to regulate current flow.

Dividing Voltage

Resistors can also lower voltage levels for specific circuit components like microcontrollers. Strategically placing resistors can provide the desired voltage from a higher circuit voltage.

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Resistor-Capacitor Networks

Resistors are often integrated with capacitors to develop circuits featuring resistor-capacitor arrays, known as RC filters or networks. These configurations suppress electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI) in various devices.

Component 3: Diode

A diode is a two-terminal device allowing electric current to flow in only one direction, resembling a check valve or one-way street in electrical circuits. It finds common use in converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC).

A. Composition

Diodes can be categorized into vacuum diodes and semiconductor diodes. Vacuum diodes consist of sealed electrodes within a vacuum tube, while semiconductor diodes—usually made from silicon—comprise both p-type and n-type semiconductors.

B. How Does It Work?

Vacuum Diode

In vacuum diodes, when the cathode is heated, electrons are emitted. Initially, the space charge prevents current flow, but when the anode becomes positively charged, current begins to flow from cathode to anode.

P-N Junction Diode

P-N junction diodes consist of p-type and n-type materials with their respective charge carriers. When a forward bias is applied, current flows, while in reverse bias, the junction prevents current flow.

C. Function and Significance

Despite their simplicity, diodes have important applications across various industries.

AC to DC Conversion

Diodes primarily rectify AC power into DC, often utilizing either half-wave or full-wave rectifiers for household power supplies.

Bypass Diodes

Bypass diodes protect solar panels from overheating caused by current passing through damaged cells.

Voltage Spike Protection

Diodes can safeguard equipment from high voltage spikes associated with sudden power supply interruptions.

Signal Demodulation

Diodes efficiently remove unwanted elements from AC signals, making them integral to radios for signal extraction.

Reverse Current Protection

Protective diodes are employed to prevent damage from incorrect DC connections by blocking current flow under reverse polarity.

Component 4: Transistor

Transistors, crucial electronic circuit components, have revolutionized electronics. These tiny semiconductor devices with three terminals serve primarily as amplifiers and switches.

A. Composition

Transistors typically comprise silicon, a more temperature-tolerant and cost-effective material than the previously used germanium. The most common types are bipolar junction transistors (BJTs)—NPN and PNP, each having three pins.

B. How Does It Work?

In NPN transistors, a p-type silicon layer between two n-type layers allows current flow upon positive voltage application to the base. The opposite holds true for PNP transistors, where negative voltage is required.

C. Function and Significance

Transistors can act as both switches and amplifiers, turning small currents into larger ones for various applications.

Transistors in Hearing Aids

Hearing aids use transistors to amplify sound pulses collected by microphones.

Transistors in Computers and Calculators

Transistors are pivotal in logic gates, fundamental components in computing systems, facilitating binary data processing.

Darlington Transistors

These transistors amplify current from low levels to high, making them suitable for devices requiring high current gain.

IGBT and MOSFET Transistors

IGBT transistors find use in amplifying and switching in appliances like electric cars, while MOSFETs regulate power levels in integrated circuits.

Component 5: Inductor

Inductors, or reactors, are passive two-terminal components that store energy in magnetic fields, returning it to circuits when necessary.

A. Composition

Typically comprising a coil of copper wire, inductors' efficiency can be increased by adding ferromagnetic materials to the coil.

B. How Does It Work?

Inductors create a magnetic field that resists AC flow while allowing DC to pass, storing energy in the process.

C. Function and Significance

Despite their size limiting their use in integrated circuits, inductors play diverse industrial roles.

Filters in Tuned Circuits

Inductors paired with capacitors form filters that select desired frequencies across various devices.

Inductors as Chokes

Inductors offer a solution for converting AC to DC supplies.

Ferrite Beads

These suppress high-frequency noise, notably used in computer and mobile device cables.

Inductors in Proximity Sensors

Many proximity sensors utilize inductors to detect nearby objects based on magnetic field alterations.

Induction Motors

Induction motors employ inductors to create rotating magnetic fields, making them reliable solutions for fixed-speed applications.

Transformers

Inductors were instrumental in developing transformers, critical for power transmission.

Energy Storage

Inductors can store energy temporarily, functioning reliably in switch mode power supplies.

Component 6: Relay

A relay is an electromagnetic switch that can open or close circuits. It requires a relatively small current to operate, regulating larger current flows.

A. Composition

Electromechanical relays consist of various parts including a frame, coil, armature, spring, and contacts, while solid-state relays feature input and output circuits paired with control circuits.

B. How Does It Work?

Relays are either normally closed (NC) or normally open (NO) devices that change circuit state upon current flow. Their operation allows control of larger circuits with lower power.

C. Function and Significance

Relays are widely used as primary protection and switching devices, also detecting irregularities in power systems across various applications.

Protective Relays

These trip circuits upon detecting faults, safeguarding equipment from damage.

Automatic Reclosing Relays

These facilitate multiple reclosures of circuits after tripping, addressing transient current variations.

Thermal Relays

These detect temperature increases, switching circuits on or off as needed to protect against overloads.

Component 7. Quartz Crystal

Quartz crystals serve multiple roles in electronics, predominantly as resonators due to their piezoelectric properties.

A. Composition

Quartz crystals, either natural or synthetic, are often fashioned into crystal oscillators for stable frequency signals.

B. How Does It Work?

Applying alternating voltage to quartz crystals induces mechanical vibrations, generating a stable signal; their Q factor enhances reliability in various applications.

C. Function and Significance

The high Q factor of quartz crystals allows their use as resonant elements in oscillators. They are essential in radios, microprocessor circuit boards, and digital watches.

Quartz Watches

Quartz watches overcome traditional timekeeping limitations by utilizing battery-powered quartz crystals for consistent timing.

Filters

In electronic circuits, quartz crystals function as effective filters for unwanted signals, superior to conventional LC component designs.

Conclusion

From connecting with distant loved ones to making daily tasks more convenient, electronic gadgets influence multiple facets of our lives. Understanding the electronic components that make these gadgets efficient enhances our appreciation for their role in technology. Your thoughts and views are welcome in the comments below.

// This article was originally published on ICRFQ.