Tutorials

In the previous tutorial, we learned about the different properties and characteristics of Inductors. These specifications are useful in determining the efficiency of an inductor in a circuit. Manufacturers supply inductors for application-specific categories including RF chokes, power, high current, and high-frequency. So, choosing an inductor is quite simple compared to resistors or capacitors (which…

In the previous article, we discussed the fundamentals and working principles of an inductor. We also learned about some common types of inductors like solenoidal coils, toroids, pot cores e and transmission line inductors. Inductors come in a variety of many other types based on construction. When select selecting an inductor for a given circuit,…

In the previous tutorial, we discussed magnetism, electromagnetism and inductance. Inductance can be useful in circuits. The electronic components that are designed to offer inductance in a circuit are called inductors. Inductors Most of the conducting materials (metals) are paramagnetic or ferromagnetic while most of the non-conducting materials (non-metals) are diamagnetic. Any conductor shows some…

So far, we discussed two passive properties of electronic components – resistance and capacitance and have reviewed the associated passive electronic components resistors and capacitors. We learned how these components affect current and voltage in a circuit, their electrical properties, and their various commercial types. A third and final passive property of electronic components that…

In the previous tutorials, we discussed working with a capacitor, characteristics of a capacitor, various types of capacitors, and selecting a capacitor for a given circuit. As we have learned, typical commercial capacitors have their capacitance in Picofarad, Nanofarad or Microfarad range. The maximum capacitance that these capacitors can provide is 1 Farad. If the…

In the previous article, we had a look at various types of capacitors. Now, let us discuss how to select a capacitor for a given application. Generally, the selection of a capacitor is not a daunting task unless you have specific circuit requirements. More often, engineers have a nominal capacitance derived for a circuit at…

In the previous tutorial, we learned about the practical construction of a capacitor and different technical aspects associated with a standard capacitor. Let us now discuss different types of commercial capacitors and the practical technical specifications associated with them. This will help greatly in choosing the right capacitor for a given application. The capacitors are…

In the previous tutorial, we learned about signal behavior and role of a capacitor in a circuit. A capacitor stores electrical charge in the form of the electrostatic field in response to an applied voltage. It charges, whenever applied voltage increases (relative to the current voltage across the capacitor), by allowing a charging current through…

In the previous tutorials, we discussed setting up an electronics lab and learned rudimentary know-how of resistors. Moving on with a discussion on passive components, let’s talk about the capacitor. Let us begin with a fictitious circuit Imagine a purely resistive circuit driven by an ideal voltage source or ideal current source. In such a…

In the previous tutorials, we discussed fixed resistors, variable resistors, and dependent resistors. The fixed resistors with a power rating of 5 W or above are classified as power resistors. The purpose of these resistors in a circuit is not to offer resistance. These resistors are assembled in a circuit only for power dissipation because…

We have already discussed fixed resistors and variable resistors. Interestingly, resistors are not just limited to be used for limiting current, dropping voltage and dissipating power. There are many special types of resistors which work as transducers too and so, they can be used as sensors in the circuits. A transducer is a  device which…

In a previous article, we discussed various types of fixed resistors, selection of resistor type for a given circuit, and identifying value, tolerance and power rating of fixed resistors. Let’s now talk about variable resistors. The resistance of variable resistors can be adjusted manually or digitally. The variable resistors offer a range of resistance instead…

In the previous article, we presented a resistor selection reference table. With the help of this table, you can determine which type of resistor will be most suitable for a given circuit or application. Once you’ve determined which type of resistor suits the best, it’s time to pick up the desired resistor. For that, it…

We have already discussed the various properties of resistors and different types of resistors. Now, it’s time to know how a resistor must be selected for a given application. Here, we present a cheat sheet here for the selection of resistors that can serve as a quick reference anytime. The process of selecting a resistor…

In the previous article, we discussed composition and film type fixed value resistors. Continuing the discussion on fixed resistors, now let us talk about wirewound, foil and semiconductor type fixed resistors. Wirewound Resistors Wirewound resistors are made by winding a resistive wire around a non-conducting core. The resistive wire is usually made up of an…

In the previous article, we learned about various performance indicators associated with resistors. Now, let us learn about different types of resistors and how they score over various performance indicators. This evaluation will help in determining the suitability and relevance of different types of resistors for specific electronic applications. There are the following types of…

In the previous article, we discussed the signal behavior of a resistor. We also talked about various applications of resistors. A resistor is supposed to offer fixed resistance to the flow of current. That is what any ideal resistor (theoretically) is supposed to do. The ideal resistor is also expected to only provide resistance sans…

In the previous tutorial, we talked about common mistakes made by electronics beginners. Hope, you will have already set up an electronics lab. Now, it’s time to start learning about basic electronic components. We will begin with passive components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors. The electronic components are broadly classified into two categories — passive…

In the previous article, we discussed how to set up your own electronics lab at home. Hopefully, you would have purchased all the stuff mentioned there and have already organized your electronics lab. Now, the first thing most important is to understand basic electronic components. But before that, it is worth mentioning the common mistakes…

Electronics is ubiquitous in the modern era. Learning electronics is a never-ending fun ride. Not just a career, it can also be an exciting hobby to take up. Most of the electronics enthusiasts, however, do not know how to get started. They usually have a random beginning that takes a lot of time and effort…