Electronic Components Guide: Types, Functions & Applications

Electronic Components Guide

Basic Components

Battery

A device consisting of one or more electrochemical cells with external connections for powering electrical devices. Power supply.

Light Bulb

An electric light with a wire filament heated until it glows. The filament is enclosed in a bulb to protect it from oxidation. Load device.

Motor

An electrical machine that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. Load device.

Buzzer

A device that makes a buzzing noise and is used for signaling. May be mechanical, electromechanical, or piezoelectric. Load device.

Semiconductor Components

Diode

Formed by the union of two semiconductors: P-type (anode) and N-type (cathode). Load device.

Light-Emitting Diode (LED)

An electronic device that emits light when an electrical current is passed through it. Early LEDs produced only red light, but modern LEDs can produce several different colors.

Transistor

A semiconductor device used to amplify or switch electronic signals and electrical power. Control device.

Passive Components

Resistor

A passive two-terminal electrical component that implements electrical resistance as a circuit element. In electronic circuits, resistors are used to reduce current flow, adjust signal levels, and divide voltages. Load device.

Light Dependent Resistor (LDR)

Also known as a photoresistor, it is a device whose resistivity is a function of the incident electromagnetic radiation. Hence, they are light-sensitive devices. Resistance varies with light. Load device.

Potentiometer

Another variable resistor, also called a rheostat. Resistance varies from 0 to a maximum value by turning or moving a movable contact. They are used for controlling volume, brightness, speed, etc. Load device.

Thermistor

A resistor that varies its value with temperature.

• NTC: Resistance decreases when temperature increases (negative temperature coefficient).
• PTC: Resistance increases when temperature increases (positive temperature coefficient). Load device.

Capacitor

A device that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It is a passive electronic component with two terminals.

The effect of a capacitor is known as capacitance. Power supplier.

Electromechanical Components

Relay

An electrically operated switch. It consists of a set of input terminals for a single or multiple control signals and a set of operating contact terminals. Control and protection device.