AFR Enterprises Blog

Integrated circuits (ICs) and chips are both common components found in a wide range of electronic devices. Although similar in functionality and composition, there are some critical differences worth highlighting. In this blog, we will cover the nuances associated with integrated circuits and chips, before discussing the main differences between the two miniaturized electronic parts.

When an analog switch is turned on, it will conduct analog and digital signals from the input pin to the output pin. It performs like a solid-state relay, which means it features no moving parts and is capable of isolating devices at their terminals when the switch is off. When the switch is on, it will conduct analog signals without consideration of the direction the signal travels in. Moreover, analog switches are capable of passing or isolating analog signals, and they are often used in place of mechanical switches because they are smaller, more reliable, and more convenient.

Across many optical communication systems, signals are prone to disruption, compromising the data received. In these systems, data is transmitted in the form of light through a fiber cable, and when the signal travels, it is often distorted. As such, an optical amplifier should be used to boost the electrical signal without altering its form. While electronic amplifiers may be used for a similar purpose, optical amplifiers are less time consuming and do not require signal conversion. For all of your optical fiber communication applications, consider integrating one of the following optical amplifiers for a distortionless data signal.

When setting up an electrical assembly and attempting to organize wires, terminal blocks are useful devices to implement more optimal and efficient connections. Terminal blocks are simply modular, insulated blocks that secure two or more wires in an assembly, bolstering organization while protecting wires from damage. With several individual terminals arranged in a strip, terminal blocks open up more opportunities to connect wiring to a ground, connect electrical switches and outlets to mains, and more. As terminal blocks can work with multiple types of connector components while deterring corrosion, damage, and other issues, it can be quite useful to have a general understanding of common variations and options.

Whether from internal causes like switching surges, or natural causes such as lightning strikes, overvoltage can seriously damage a circuit. To account for this risk, many electrical components have been created to manage or suppress the flow of current in the event of a power surge. A varistor, also called “Voltage- Dependent Resistor” (VDR), is one such device which has an electrical resistance that varies with applied voltage. Due to their ability to adapt to the voltage of a current, varistors are mainly used to clamp the voltage when a circuit is subjected to overvoltage and to absorb excess current to protect sensitive devices. The material of the resistor body is a semiconductor, meaning it will go from being an insulator to a conductor when subjected to a specific voltage.

Generators and alternators are both common systems used to generate electrical current, but while a generator is able to produce direct current (DC) voltage, an alternator supplies alternating current (AC) voltage. Although AC voltage can be useful for a number of applications, it cannot be used for devices such as batteries that are commonly found in automobiles and aircraft alike. Despite this, alternators are a very common feature in such vehicles, providing the power necessary to charge batteries and power electrical systems. Since AC voltage cannot be used in these instances, devices known as rectifier diodes must be in place for the means of transforming AC voltage into DC voltage.

Power supply units employ various circuit-level components to achieve a desired output. Such elements may include resistors, transistors, capacitors, diodes, or any combination of the above. More often, in complex power supply units, specialty devices must be implemented to perform a task. One such device that plays an integral role in the conversion of alternating current to direct current is the bridge rectifier circuit. This component, which has been used with regular frequency since its invention in the late 1800s, remains a staple in many power supply units of the modern era. In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about bridge rectifier circuits, including their design, operating principle, and variants.

Physical devices used for the purpose of data management, instruction execution, or information storage are known as computer memory components. Memory is a basic requirement for the normal functioning of any computer or system. Based on different uses and purposes, computer memory storage can be temporary or permanent. In this blog, we will discuss what computer memory is, its importance, and commonly available types.

A thermistor is a type of resistance thermometer or resistor that has functions which depend on temperature. It is a temperature-sensing element made up of a sintered semiconductor material. A thermistor is also a powerful tool that exhibits a huge change in resistance which is proportional to a small temperature change. Thermistors are of two types - positive temperature coefficient (PTC) and negative temperature coefficient (NTC) viations. In this blog, we will talk about positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistors in particular.

Diodes are a staple of digital electronic circuits, serving to direct current in a single direction. This is done through a low resistance being implemented in one direction, while a high resistance deters flow in the other. In a forward bias diode, the polarity of the external voltage will oppose the built-in potential, causing current to flow through the p-n junction. However, some diodes will have an external voltage that is of the same polarity as the built-in potential, blocking the flow of current as per the reverse bias phenomenon. There are various types of diodes available on the market, each varying in their characteristics of voltage and current to accommodate different applications. Varactor diodes in particular are types that are known for their ability to take on the application of reverse voltages. As a diode type commonly found in various FR filters, parametric amplification circuits, and other assemblies, it can be beneficial to have a better understanding of its design.