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Op-amp Comparator: Configurations and Applications in Circuits
Op-amp comparators are circuits that use an operational amplifier (op-amp) in an open-loop configuration (without negative feedback) to compare two input voltages. The output of the op-amp rapidly saturates to either the positive or negative supply rail depending on which…
What is Voltage Follower (Buffer) in Op-amp
A voltage follower, also known as a buffer, is a configuration where an operational amplifier (op-amp) is set up to have a voltage gain of 1. This means the output voltage follows the input voltage, hence the term “voltage follower.”…
What is a Zener Diode Used For? Key Applications Explained
A Zener diode is a special type of semiconductor diode designed to allow current to flow not only in the forward direction but also in reverse under specific conditions. What makes it unique is that it is heavily doped to…
What is a Capacitor? A Complete Guide for Beginners
Capacitors are circuit components that store electric charge when a potential difference is applied across their terminals. This ability to store charge is called capacitance (C) and is measured in farads (F). One farad is equivalent to one coulomb of charge…
How to Read a Schematic Circuit Diagram
A schematic diagram is a simplified representation of various circuit elements. It uses lines and standard graphic symbols to depict the interconnection of components and other parameters.
Nowadays, software like Fritzing and Tinkercad uses realistic pictures to represent different components…
Why Outsourcing PCB Fabrication Online is Ideal for Makers
Outsourcing PCBs has gained significant traction, especially with the rapid growth of the global PCB market. Valued at USD 69.69 billion in 2023, the market is projected to expand to USD 113.49 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.9%.…
Grounding Basics: What is Ground in Electronic Circuits
If you’re working on a circuit and you don’t know where the ground is, the first step is to consult the schematic diagram. The ground is usually (but not always) marked with a symbol that looks like a series of…
Field-Effect Transistors (FETs) Explained: Types and Applications
Unlike bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), which control current using current, FETs control current using an electric field. This distinction also makes them integral to a variety of electronic applications because of their high input impedance and low power consumption.
What…
Bipolar Junction Transistors (BJTs): NPN Vs. PNP
Transistors, often hailed as the building blocks of modern electronics, play a pivotal role in amplifying or switching electrical signals.
In this discussion, we will dive deeply into bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), particularly focusing on their two types: NPN and…
How Does a Diode Work in a Circuit
You can play the audio version of this article.
This podcast episode discusses the fundamentals of diodes, including:
How they work
Biasing
Preventing reverse current
Rectification in power supplies
Diodes are essential and widely used components in electronics. They play…