Basic Electronics Technology Education

 1. An ELECTRONIC DEVICE is a group of electronic components, such as resistors, capacitors and diodes, connected together in such a way that they work to perform a specific function.

 2. A RESISTOR is a component that simply resists the FLOW OF ELECTRICITY.  Symbol for resistors  3. Resistors are rated in the form of OHMS. With the symbol of .

 4. VARIABLE RESISTORS have the same function as regular resistors except the resistive value can be varied.  Used as a sliding switch or rotating knob in item such as a dimmer switch.

5. A capacitor has the ability to STORE AN ELECTRICAL CHARGE. a. They are similar to a battery but can release their electrical charge very quickly. b. Capacitors are used primarily to SMOOTH OUT the electrical flow. c. The two most common types are CERAMIC DISC and ELECTROLYTIC. d. They are made of ceramic disc and silver and an electrolyte material and aluminum respectively. e. Capacitors are rated using FARADS.

SYMBOL FOR A CAPACITOR 

A. DIODE is a electrical component used to control the flow of electricity. It is similar to a check valve that it only allows a one way flow of electricity. a. Diodes have a anode and cathode lead and must be put into the circuit properly  SYMBOL FOR A DIODE  Anode leadCathode lead

 7. Light Emitting Diodes or LED’s are used as indicator lights and can be produced in a variety of colors. a. A shorter lead or a flat area on the base usually indicates the Cathode end of the component.

 8. An INTEGRATED CIRCUIT or IC is a collection of electronic circuits etched into a thin layer of silicon and installed in a plastic or ceramic housing.  Placement of an IC is determined by a dot or notch on the component.

 9. A CIRCUIT BOARD provides a platform for mounting electronic components and COPPER PATHS connect the components and form a circuit.