Difference between Transistors and Thyristors

Transistors and thyristors are semiconductors switching devices. They are used for controlling current flow in circuits. They play a very important role in all power conversion devices. In this article…

The difference between kVA and kVAR

The difference between kVA and kVAR is pretty simple. "kVA" is the unit of apparent power whereas "kVAR" is the unit of reactive power. Before getting into the topic, we…

TRIAC – Operation, symbol, circuits & applications

A TRIAC or TRIode for Alternating Current is a three-terminal bidirectional thyristor, meaning that can conduct current in both directions when activated properly. It is used in AC switching applications.…

Surge Protection Device (SPD) | Surge protector

A surge protection device (SPD) or simply a surge protector is a device used to ensure protection against transient surges. It is used to protect the household and commercial applications…

Thyristors and their types

Thyristors are high-speed semiconductor switching devices that are made up of four layers of alternating p and n-type materials. They are used in AC/DC switching and AC power control applications.…

SCR – Silicon Controlled rectifier

A Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR) is a unidirectional semiconductor device that can be triggered into conduction by applying a positive gate current. It led to tremendous advancements in power semiconductor…

Transformer cooling methods

Transformers are the most efficient electric machine. A typical transformer is over 99% efficient. The small inefficiency is due to copper losses, core losses-hysteresis and eddy currents losses, stray and…

Drawout circuit breaker positions and indications explained

Several operating indications can be seen on the front of an ACB or MCCB. Being an electrician or an engineer it is important that one must understand those indication and…

IGBT – Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor

An insulated-gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) is a type of bipolar transistor that has an insulated gate terminal. The structure of the IGBT includes an input MOSFET which consists of the…

Common emitter configuration of BJT

The common emitter circuit is probably the most widely used transistor configuration. The emitter electrode is common to both input and output circuits. The common emitter amplifier has a typical…