We know that to make an electronic circuit, we need various components as per the outcome requirement. Construction of the electronic circuit involves various components like resistor, Zener diode, capacitors, inductor, transistor, battery, power supply and wires are used to connect the components. Each component performs different functions and is manufactured with relevant industrial specifications. Electronic symbols are used to represent these components while drawing the electronic circuit.
Electronic circuit lets us analyze the current flow path in the circuit. In this article, let us understand some of the key components, like resistor and Zener diode in detail.
Resistors
Resistor might be a small device, but it is the fundamental component of a circuit. It is a small two-terminal device that is mainly used to regulate the flow of electricity through the circuit. This device works in both series and parallel combinations. Resistor is a passive device which is used to reduce current flow, adjust signal levels, to divide voltages, and terminate transmission lines. It is a non-polarized component where both sides of the resistor will have the same polarity. Resistors can be connected from both sides and the value of the resistor is measured in Ohms.
There are many types of resistors, some of the common types of resistors are:
- Wirewound resistors
- Film Resistors
- Carbon Resistor
Wide range of resistors is manufactured depending on the usage. Resistors are manufactured with colour codes, and this Resistor Colour Code determines the value of the resistor. The Radio Manufacturers Association (RMA) in the 1920s invented the resistor colour code.
Resistor colour code is explained in detail in the figure below.
“BB ROY of Great Britain had a Very Good Wife” is the mnemonic resistor colour code, to determine the resistance value of a given resistor.
Zener Diode
It is a silicon-based semiconductor device that allows the current to flow in either forward or reverse direction. Zener diode is also known as the breakdown diode. It features a heavily doped p-n junction which can operate even in the reverse direction. Zener diodes are manufactured with a wide range of Zener voltages.
Clarence Melvin Zener, the theoretical physicist who worked for bell labs, was the first person to describe the Zener diode.
This diode has a distinct reverse-breakdown voltage. When reverse-breakdown voltage is reached, the device lets the conducting current and continues operating continuously in the reverse-bias mode without getting damaged. The voltage drop across the Zener diode remains constant over a wide range of voltages; this makes Zener diodes ideal for use in voltage regulation.
It is widely used in all kinds of electronic equipment. It is used to generate low-power stabilized supply rails and give reference voltages for circuits, particularly for stabilized power supplies. Zener diodes are used to protect circuits from overvoltage and electrostatic discharges.
Zener diodes are specifically used for the voltage regulation, as surge suppressors, in switching applications, in clipper circuits and as reference elements.
To know more about various types of electronic components, visit BYJU’S!!
