Semiconductors, Diodes, Thyristors, Triacs, and Transistors
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Semiconductors
The simplest elements used in making semiconductors are silicon and germanium. In their pure state, silicon and germanium are insulators.
Diodes
By attaching a positive (+) semiconductor and a negative (-) semiconductor, we obtain the simplest electronic device called a diode: (+)--->|---(-). During the operation of a diode, there is a loss of electrical energy that is converted into heat. This is the weak point of devices employing semiconductors.
Application as a Protection Diode
A diode can be used as protection for electronic equipment, preventing a change in the polarity of the power connection.
Application of Diodes as a Circuit Breaker
The function of the diode as a circuit breaker, in this case, is to allow current to pass in the forward direction. By placing a diode between the alternator and the battery, current from the generator will only flow to the battery and cannot flow in reverse.
Application of a Diode as a Rectifier
It is possible to use a diode as a rectifier for an alternating current generator to charge a battery. If a diode is connected to an AC generator, it will only pass the positive (+) cycles, losing the negative (-) cycles.
Zener Diode
We can define the Zener diode as a diode connected to a circuit in reverse. The Zener diode's function is not to rectify but to work as a voltage stabilizer: ----->^----
Zener Diode Application
As long as the voltage is inferior to the Zener voltage, changes would not affect the charge. However, an increase in voltage exceeding the Zener voltage will produce a current flow through the resistance, causing a voltage drop and triggering the maximum stabilized intensity. Formula: Power = Zener Voltage / Zener Current.
Thyristor
The thyristor is an electronic switch that closes when a positive (+) voltage is applied to its gate terminal. It is similar to a diode but has an additional terminal called the "gate" used to trigger the thyristor into a conduction state.
The Triac
Its operation is similar to a thyristor, and triacs are used as switches to connect or disconnect electric loads that handle alternating current. It has three terminals: MT1, MT2, and Gate.
Transistors
Transistors consist of the union of three semiconductors. They can be PNP when composed of two positive parts and one negative part.