Understanding Modern Electronics

The difference between electricity and electronics; studying modern electronics by examining this distinction; electronics use the basic properties of electric circuits in a more sophisticated way; describing resistance with Ohm's law.

Introducing circuit diagrams that display the interconnected assemblages of electronic components that make a circuit function; deciphering these drawings; components assembled in series or in parallel may interact differently.

Growing familiar with the physical properties of electric circuits; becoming acquainted with the instruments such as voltmeters, ammeters, ohmmeters, multimeters and the oscilloscope; seeing how these instruments interact with a circuit.

Examining the nuances of alternating and direct currents; observing the role of diodes and capacitors in regulating current; seeing how the DC power supplies that charge cell phones are constructed so that they convert alternating to direct current.

From familiar audio equalizers to crank the bass or reduce hiss, to cell phone towers that need to separate calls coming in on adjacent channels, filtering electronic signals is often essential; the role that capacitors play in electronic filters.

Semiconductors make possible the transistors at the heart of electronics, including integrated circuits and computers; the atomic configuration of semiconductors makes them unique; adjusting their properties to make two types of semiconductors.