Electrical Parts, Controls, & Devices Part 3
Transducer | Thermostat | Thermistor | Light Dependent Resistor | Motor Coil Solenoid | Buzzer | Fuse | Resistor | Heater | Lamp | Rheostat Potentiometer | Timer | Transformer | Diode | Capacitor | Ground | Switches
Transformer:
Transformers are two coils of wire linked usualy by an iron core. Energy is
transferred between the coils by the magnetic field in the core. Transformers are used to step up (increase) and step down
(decrease) AC voltages . For example a transformer may be supplied with 110 volts AC and produce a voltage of 3 VAC or 2000 VAC. A transformer does not generate electricity it increases or decreases a circut's voltage.
Diode:
A diode is an electrical device that only allows current to flow in one direction, like a one way gate. In a microwave oven diodes are used in line with a transformer and capacitor to create a large voltage discharge used by the microwave's magnetron to create the microwaves used to excite the water in your food.
Capacitor:
A capacitor stores an electric charge. (Note that that electrical charge can remain even after a circuit's power supply has been removed or unplugged!)
Ground or Earth Connection:
This connection is very important; it is usually made with bare wire attached to the cabinet of an appliance, which is in turn connected to earth within the service panel of your home through a "grounded" plug. This connection serves a safety protecting against electrocution in the case of a short .
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Switches:
Terms describing switch properties
Open:
Off position, offering infinite resistance to a circuit.
Closed: On position, offering zero resistance to a circuit.
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Pole: Number of contact sets.
Throw: Number of conducting positions. (Single or double)
Way: Number of conducting positions. (Three or more)
Momentary: A switch that returns to its normal position when released.