Basic Electronic Components

Solenoid

A coil of wire that produces a magnetic field when carrying an electric current

Switch

A device for making, breaking, or changing the connections in an electrical circuit.

Diode

A device that permits current to flow through it in only one direction.

Relay

A device that uses a solenoid to operate a switch than can open or close another circuit.follow.

Component

A part or element of a larger whole.

Circuit Breaker

A reusable safety switch that breaks the circuit when the current becomes too high

Fuse

A safety device with a thin metal strip that will melt if too much current passes through a circuit

Transistor

A small electronic device used in a circuit as an amplifier or switch.

Potentiometer

A switch that can provide variable motion control. It can vary the resistance within the switch, which affects both the current and voltage flowing out of the switch.

Fusible Link

Connecting link device that fuses or melts when exposed to heat

Compacitor

Stores opposite charges on its conductive plates

Terminal

the connecting points in an electrical circuit