Some types of passive electronic components

When it comes to the topic of electronics, one of the least known to the mind of the ordinary consumer is passive electronic components. Abacus Technologies shares some knowledge on what they are.

By definition, passive electronic components are components that consume energy. They are not capable of producing energy, they do not produce energy, and they do not require power to operate. Ultimately, they take on a passive role, hence the name, by simply absorbing energy.

One type of passive component is the capacitor. A capacitor, otherwise known as a condenser, is a two-terminal electrical component used to store energy within an electric field. Sometimes it is helpful to think of a capacitor as a battery with a very low capability to store energy. It is so small that it takes only a split second to charge and discharge it.

Another type of passive component is a resistor. These are used to limit or regulate the flow of current in an electronic circuit. There are variable resistors, which are responsible for familiar functional applications like dimming the light in a room, or reducing the volume of a speaker. This is done by voltage control.

A transformer allows for electrical energy to be transferred between circuits. This type of electronic component works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. Two different windings of coils work together by a varying current resulting in a varying voltage. This way, the transformer is able to efficiently change voltages that can be used for different purposes.

People are more dependent on passive electronic components than they are generally aware of. The truth is, there is hardly any electronic device that does not have a passive electronic component, as Abacus Technologies affirms.

To make technological innovation possible, Abacus Technologies employs a dynamic product team whose sole responsibility is to monitor customers' most used products. The company supports customers with excellent personal service, a diverse product offering, and a large inventory spread across six locations in the United States and the United Kingdom. Learn more about Abacus Technologies here.