solid state electronics library

Solid State Components are the building blocks of today's technology. From batteries and circuit breakers to oscillators and microcontrollers, they make up the gadgets and machines that we use every day.

Featured Article: How Capacitors Work

The capacitor plays a crucial role in electronics -- it stores electrons for when they're needed most, dumping a huge charge instead of a steady flow. How does it do it? See more »

Articles 21-32 of 32

How much power does a small transformer consume when plugged in but not doing anything?

A typical home probably has five to 10 transformers plugged into the wall at any given time. It turns out that these transformers consume power whenever they are plugged in, whether they are connected to a device or not.

How OLEDs Work

Imagine a TV that is 80 inches wide and less than a quarter-inch thick, consumes less power than most TVs you can buy today and can be rolled up when you're not using it. OLEDs can make it happen. Find out how.

How Oscillators Work

Oscillators show up in lots of electronic equipment. In fact, you might be surprised to know that computers, radios, metal detectors and stun guns all use oscillators. Learn all about electronic oscillators.

How Relays Work

Powered by electromagnets, a relay is simply a mechanical switch, and you’ll find them all over a typical house or car. Find out what these simple components are doing in all your electrical stuff.

How Semiconductors Work

Semiconductors form the heart of modern electronics. Learn about semiconductors, silicon, doping, diodes and other fascinating technologies.

How Surge Protectors Work

When you put together a computer system, one piece of standard equipment you'll probably use is a surge protector. They safeguard your computer and electronic devices from power surges in your electrical system.

How Transmissive Film Works

A normal LCD usually wastes a lot of energy. But a new film that's only microns thick can make display screens dramatically brighter.

How Wireless Power Works

Unless you're particularly organized and good with those little twist ties, you probably have a few dusty power cord tangles around your home. But wireless power transmission could soon cut the clutter and lead to clean sources of electricity.

What do the UL marks on so many products mean?

A large number of electronic devices carry "UL" marks. You can find them on everything from Christmas lights to digital camcorders. What does this logo mean?

What does solid-state mean in relation to electronics?

Solid-state electronic devices are part of our everyday lives. The transistor, invented in 1947, was the first solid-state device to come into commercial use. Learn what solid state electronics are and where you can find them.

What is the difference between two- and three-pronged plugs?

Ever wonder why some appliance plugs have three prongs and others have only two? What does that third prong do? And what would happen if you plugged a three-pronger into a two-prong outlet with an adapter?

Why do batteries seem to go dead and then come back to life if you let them rest?

The "self-recharging" feature of a battery is most noticeable in a car battery. In some cases, you can crank the engine until the battery seems totally dead, then come back an hour later and crank it again.