Electronic Components

Inductor

A coil of wire that creates a magnetic field when current passes through it

Integrated Circuit (IC)

A complex electronic circuit fabricated on a simple piece of material, usually a silicone

Diode

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

Multimeter

A measuring instrument for current, voltage, and resistance

555 Timer

A single-chip version of a commonly used circuit called a multivibrator. Used for basic timing functions, such as turning a light on for a certain length of time, to create a warning light that flashes on and off, to produce musical notes of a particular frequency, or to control positioning of a servo device.

Transistor

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

Servo Motor

A small, compact, gear head motor with a restricted range of rotational motion.

Push Button Switch

A switch that can be opened or closed by pressing buttons on the 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.

Piezo

An electrical component that can be used to detect vibrations and create noises.

Capacitor

An electrical component that can store and release electrical energy (voltage) in a circuit for periods of time.

LED

An electronic device that conducts current in one direction only and illuminates when it is conducting.

Temperature sensor

Changes its voltage output depending on the temperature of the component. The outside legs connect to power and ground. The voltage on the center pin changes as it gets warmer or cooler.

Resistor

Component used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit.

Long leg = anode

How you do tell the positive end on an L.E.D.?

Ohms

Resistors are measured in what units?

Relay

Use a low level control signal to switch a much higher voltage or current supply using a number of different contact arrangements.

Breadboard

a board for making an experimental model of an electric circuit

schematic diagram

a diagram that describes an electric circuit, using special symbols to represent different devices in the circuit

DC motor

an electric motor that runs on direct current (DC) electricity.