TOP 10 Basic Electrical Components

Crystal oscillators are electronic devices that generate precise and stable oscillations by utilizing the mechanical resonance of a quartz crystal. The crystal, when subjected to an electric field, vibrates at a specific frequency, serving as a highly accurate reference for timekeeping in various applications.

Resistors are passive electronic components that impede the flow of electric current in a circuit. They are characterized by their resistance, measured in ohms (Ω). Resistors play a crucial role in controlling current, voltage, and power levels within electronic circuits. They come in various types, such as fixed resistors with a constant resistance value and variable resistors (potentiometers) that allow adjustable resistance.

Capacitors are electronic components that store and release electrical energy in a circuit. They consist of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material known as a dielectric. When a voltage is applied, charge accumulates on the plates, creating an electric field. Capacitors are characterized by their capacitance, measured in farads (F), representing their ability to store charge per unit voltage.

Inductors are passive electronic components that store energy in a magnetic field when an electric current flows through them. The key parameter of an inductor is its inductance, measured in henrys (H), which determines the amount of energy it can store per unit current change. Inductors resist changes in current and are commonly used in electronic circuits for purposes such as energy storage, filtering, and inductive coupling.

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) are semiconductor devices that emit light when an electric current passes through them. They are widely used as indicators, displays, and light sources in various applications.Commonly used in lighting, signage, automotive lighting, and electronic displays, LEDs have become integral components in modern technology, offering energy-efficient and versatile lighting solutions.

Diodes are semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in one direction only. They consist of a P-type semiconductor and an N-type semiconductor joined at a junction. The most common type is the semiconductor diode, which permits current flow when a voltage is applied in the forward direction but blocks it in the reverse direction.

Transistors are semiconductor devices that play a fundamental role in electronic circuits, serving as amplifiers, switches, and signal modulators. They come in various types, with the most common being bipolar junction transistors (BJTs) and field-effect transistors (FETs).

MOSFETs, or Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistors, are a type of transistor widely used in electronic devices for amplification, switching, and signal processing. They consist of a metal gate, an insulating oxide layer (usually silicon dioxide), and a semiconductor material.

Relays are electromagnetic switches that control electrical circuits by opening or closing contacts in response to a signal. They consist of an electromagnet, an armature, and a set of contacts. When an electrical current energizes the coil, it creates a magnetic field, attracting the armature and closing or opening the contacts. Relays are used to control high-power devices with low-power signals, providing isolation between control and load circuits.

Thyristors are semiconductor devices commonly used for controlling electric power. The most well-known type of thyristor is the silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR). Thyristors act as switches and can handle high currents, making them valuable in power electronics.

Thyristors operate as latching devices; once triggered, they remain conducting until the current flowing through them drops below a certain threshold.