ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS GUIDE

Before we go any further, let's define some terms. Technically speaking, an electronic component (or a part) in general is a device that uses in its operation or affects electromagnetic fields and/or the flow of electrical charges. In a narrow sense, it is a basic element of a circuit usually packaged in a discrete form with at least two terminals. In the broad sense, it may be any part or a sub-assembly of a system with a modular construction. For example, OEM power supplies are often treated as an equipment's component.

Basic components are classified into passive (such as resistors, capacitors and inductors) or active (such as transistors). The passive parts do not have any control. Their state is determined by applied voltage or current. The active ones have active control via additional control terminal(s). Most active parts today are semiconductor based.
Here you will find bookmarks to parts cross reference guides, online manufacturers catalogs and datasheet search, as well as basic electronic part definitions and characteristics. If you can't find a part substitute you are looking for, Digikey has an excellent parametric parts search along with probably the most extensive datasheet library.

See also:
Electrical engineering reference online: electric network laws and theorems;
Electronics and safety standards information;
Free tech ebooks and white papers;
The guide to accredited online schools, distance learning programs and courses.

DEFINITIONS AND PROPERTIES OF BASIC PARTS		THIRD PARTY CROSS REFERENCE GUIDES		CROSS REFERENCE FROM ELECTRONIC MANUFACTURERS
Understanding passive electronic components: resistors, capacitors, inductors Choosing a replacement transistor: picking a substitute Understanding relays operation Resistor properties, color chart and calculator		Cross reference for obsolete RCA transistors and diodes Substitutes for opamps and comparators HP to JEDEC: transistors and diodes conversion table download Datasheet catalog for integrated circuits and other semiconductors		NTE transistor cross reference, as well as other semiconductors, relays, switches SMT tantalum and electrolytic capacitors (AVX, Kemet, KOA, etc.) Fuse cross reference Multi-layer ceramic capacitors

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