Photonics is a branch of optics that consists of the generation, detection, and manipulation of light via emission, transmission, modulation, amplification, signal processing, switching, and sensing. Considered a sub-discipline of photonics, optoelectronics encompass a field of study and application of light-emitting or light-detecting devices. Today, optoelectronics is quickly becoming a fast emerging technology that includes applying electronic devices to source, detect, and control light. Read more >>

A rheostat is a type of variable resistor that, when placed into an electrical circuit, can be utilized to adjust and control the quantity of current flowing around it. It achieves this by varying the resistance on the circuit, without interrupting the power supply. Rheostats are considered a common type of electromechanical variable resistor, meaning that they enable users to vary their ohmic resistance manually when necessary. Read more >>

Working with electricity poses unique threats to both the user and the system in which the electrical circuit operates. From fire hazards to electrocution, there are many reasons why one should exercise precaution when working with electric circuits. As such, there are various protection devices one should understand, those of which detach power supplies  to prevent dangers caused by extreme voltages or currents. For your better knowledge, this blog will cover some of the most common circuit protection devices used to prevent electrical damages. Read more >>

RF (Radio Frequency) connectors, also known as coax connectors, are used with coaxial cables to securely transmit radio frequencies from point-A to point-B. They are found in a wide range of applications including television receivers, two-way radios, Wi-Fi devices with antennas, and scientific measuring instruments. Knowing some basic information about the different types of RF connectors and their common uses can help you decide on the right RF connector for your custom cable assembly. In this article, we will discuss the various types of coax connectors and some important factors to consider. Read more >>

Computers in the modern day are highly advanced, featuring a number of state-of-the-art electronics and IT hardware that make the various capabilities of the system possible. One of the most important inventions for computers was the microprocessor, that of which highly changed how we are able to view, analyze, and manipulate data and information. Microprocessors are often conflated with microcontrollers, those of which are components that were created as a byproduct of microprocessor development. Despite both electronic parts featuring similar names and being present in many of the same systems and devices, they both perform separate and distinct roles. In this blog, we will discuss the microprocessor and microcontroller in more detail, allowing you to better understand how each benefits computers and integrated circuits. Read more >>

A “Triode for AC” is a component that is commonly abbreviated into TRIAC, where ‘TRI’ denotes a device with three terminals, and AC implies that it controls alternating current or conducts it in both directions. TRIACs are semiconductor devices used for switching control and power applications, and they are used extensively in fan speed controls, lamp light controls, phase controls, and even modern computerized control units of several household devices. Since TRIACs find widespread application in several industries, learning more about their construction and function becomes imperative. Read more >>

An oscillator is a circuit that generates a continuous, repeated, and alternating waveform without any input. Essentially, oscillators convert unidirectional current flow from a direct current source into alternating current which is the desired frequency for a majority of operations. In this blog, we will outline oscillator circuits, their various types, and their differing applications. Read more >>

Chip resistors are integrated circuit (IC) devices that oppose the flow of electrical current, and are primarily used to protect, operate, and control circuits. They find use in a vast array of applications, including automotive, transport, industrial, consumer electronics, and IT & telecommunication industries. In particular, the consumer electronic industry has seen a high demand for chip resistors as technological advancements have brought about a new era of electronic products. Read more >>

While USB ports and connectors have long served as the dominant standard for computers and devices to exchange power and data, there are other various means of establishing connections between electronics. As another major standard connection type, IEEE 1394 (FireWire) cables, connectors, and ports allow for devices such as video cameras, scanners, printers, external hard drive equipment, and other various peripherals to be connected to a computer or system. To help you understand the use of IEEE 1394 standard components and how they compare to USB connections, we will discuss them in more detail. Read more >>

If you have designed sound systems or have procured various electrical components for them, you may be familiar with the Darlington transistor. Within the realm of electronics, a Darlington pair is used to describe a circuit that contains two bipolar transistors where one emitter is connected to the base of the other. With such a design, all current amplified by the first transistor will be amplified to a greater extent as it passes thro...