Electronic components

-are basic electronic elements that may be either active or passive. Transistors, diodes and integrated circuits are some of the examples of active components, while resistors, transformers, passive transducers and capacitors are examples of passive components. The main difference between active and passive components is that the active ones have the ability to amplify signal, whereas passive components do not amplify signal automatically.

Active components require a control signal and a minimum voltage to perform, like controlling the flow of current. They are used in dynamic applications like amplification switching, rectification and modulation. Passive components, on the other hand, are used in basic applications, such as storing electrical charge, limiting current and suppressing current surges. Active components can change their electrical behavior, according to the changes in their input signal, whereas passive components do not change their electrical behavior with the application of the signal.

Active components are vastly used in almost all business sectors, which use computers, power supplies, defense electronics, telecommunication devices, automotive electronics and business machines. Passive components are used in electronic engineering and control systems. The demand for passive electronic components is increasing in the power segment year after year. Passive components like industrial grade resistors and AC power line capacitors are of great use in wind energy and solar energy applications. Aerospace and defense aircraft systems also make use of passive components greatly. Recent developments in passive electronic component technology result in smaller components offering higher performance.

Electronic component distributors and the buyers should understand the difference between active and passive components, because active components are more sensitive and prone to damages. Hence, they require immense care while packaging and handling.

1-Source Electronic Components is an authorized distributor of many active and passive components. You can find a wide range of active components like discrete semiconductors, integrated circuits, diodes, light emitting diodes, transistors and active transducers. The wide collection of active components at 1-Source helps you find obsolete, hard-to-find active component parts. They have a vast network of trustworthy contacts, which help you get the best active components that suit your need and budget.