Aerospace Orbit Blog

In the realm of electronics and circuitry, the terms "fuse" and "fuse resistor" are frequently encountered, and while they sound very similar, they serve distinct functions and play separate roles within a circuit. Understanding the differences between these two components is crucial for both novice and experienced electronics enthusiasts to ensure such components are used correctly. This blog aims to elucidate the disparity between a traditional fuse and a fuse resistor, shedding light on their individual characteristics and applications.

One of the most important passive electrical components found in a wide range of circuits are capacitors. Capacitors can be divided into two broad categories: polarized and nonpolarized. As a result of their flexibility and low price points, film capacitors are the most common types.

Power connectors are used to provide electrical power to small-to-medium-sized electronic appliances via a direct current from the main connection. Although several different types of DC Connectors are currently available, barrel connectors are amongst the ones most commonly used today.

Solid-state relays (SSRs) are a type of electronic device with a binary switching function. Compared to similar devices, such as the electromechanical relay, SSRs provide a longer operational lifetime and can be used in a wider range of operating conditions. With many device manufacturers implementing SSRs in their architecture, it is beneficial to understand the operating principles of these switches. In this blog, we will discuss how solid-state relays work and how they are being implemented in various devices.

Sensors are devices that detect change in their surrounding environment and provide data in the form of an analog or a digital signal that is used for process control. They are not standalone devices and are often connected to a transmitter that can amplify their output signal. There are many different sensors and sensing technologies currently available, each equipped to provide varying data. As such, this blog will provide a brief overview of the most common, how they work, and their applications.

A wirewound resistor is a passive electrical device which can be used to limit or restrict current flow. In resemblance to their name, wirewound resistors are typically composed of metal wires which wrap around a metal core; this combination of parts helps mitigate the flow of an electrical current to a desirable level. Classified into two types, power wirewound resistors and precision wirewound resistors, each type exists to facilitate non-inductive and inductive applications, respectively. However, in the specific case of power wirewound resistors, the wiring acts as the resistor component while the metal core serves as the non-conductive source. Together, all parts making up a resistor must be capable of providing high resistance to current while operating at high temperatures without failure.

While conductors exhibit low resistance and insulators feature high resistance, semiconductor materials are those that feature electrical conductivity values between the two. Semiconductors are produced from a number of compounds, common ones being gallium arsenide. They may also be produced with pure elements as well, such as germanium and silicon. With such materials, semiconductor devices may be produced and used for applications such as electronic circuit module fabrication, solar cells, laser diodes, and much more. As semiconductor devices and associated hardware serve as cornerstones of modern electronic manufacturing, having a general understanding of their functionality and types can be very beneficial.

Power supply units (PSUs) are electrical devices that are capable of providing voltage for a load, and they are regularly found in computer systems, electric vehicles, aircraft, and more. While many electrical systems could simply receive power directly from an outlet or energy source, the power supply ensures that current is translated to the correct voltage, current, and frequency that is needed for the particular load. As such, they are crucial for the proper operation of many electronics and electrical systems.

Generators are devices that are paramount to the operation of many aircraft, ensuring that the electrical system is provided with sufficient power for every electronic device onboard. Generators are also used for the charging of the aircraft battery, thus guaranteeing power during the startup phase of the aircraft as well as in emergency situations such as a generator failure. With the important role that generators serve for the proper functionality of the aircraft electrical system, it is crucial that aircraft owners understand how they operate.

Since the invention of electricity, electronics and electrical appliances have become greatly intertwined with our day to day lives. To allow for our phones, computers, lights, and other electronics to function, we have implemented complex electrical grids that allow us to access electricity with ease in many areas. As electricity is a volatile force that can damage components and harm individuals if left unchecked, protective elements are often put in place as a failsafe or safety feature for circuits. With an electronic device known as a circuit breaker, electrical networks and their attached devices can be protected from overloads and short circuits.