click below
click below
Normal Size Small Size show me how
Electronics
Electronic Components and Tools
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Resistor | Used to resist the flow of current or to control the voltage in a circuit. Measured in Ohms. |
| Potentiometer | These components can be found in devices such as a light dimmer or volume control for a radio. When you turn the shaft of this device, the resistance changes in the circuit. Also known as a variable resistor. |
| Photocell | Also called a light-dependent resistor - its resistance changes with the intensity of the light. Often found in exterior lights that automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn. |
| Capacitor | This stores electricity and then will discharge it back into the circuit when there is a drop in voltage. This is like a rechargeable battery and can be charged and then discharged. |
| Diode | Allows electricity to flow in one direction and blocks it from flowing the opposite way. This acts as a "one-way" street. Its primary role is to route electricity from taking an unwanted path within the circuit. |
| Light-Emitting Diode (LED) | Emits light when electricity flows through it. Is like a standard diode in the fact that electrical current only flows in one direction. |
| 555 I.C. Timer | A circuit that’s been reduced in size to fit inside a tiny chip. This circuit contains electronic components like resistors and capacitors but on a much smaller scale. Each pin on an IC is unique in terms of its function. |
| Switch | Basic function is to interrupt electric current by turning a circuit on or off. |
| Breadboard | An essential tool for prototyping and building temporary circuits - they contain holes for inserting wire and components - they allow you to create circuits without soldering. |
| Digital Multimeter | A device that’s used to measure electric current (amps), voltage (volts) and resistance (ohms). It’s a great tool for troubleshooting circuits and is capable of measuring both AC and DC voltage. |
| Battery Holder | A plastic case that holds 9V batteries and/or other small batteries. Some are enclosed and may have an on/off switch built in. |
| Alligator Clips | Also called "Test Leads" - great for connecting components together to test a circuit without the need for soldering. |
| Wire Cutter | A tool used for stripping stranded and solid copper wire. |
| Jumper Wire | Used with breadboards to make connections and are usually made of thin, shorter, solid core wire. |
| Transistor | Tiny switch that turn a current on or off when triggered by an electric signal. It can also be used to amplify electronic signals. |
| Electric Motor | An electrical machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy - can be powered by DC or AC. |