In electrical circuits, diodes are used to keep power running in one direction. They are small parts with a big job. Brands like Microsemi diodes are in high demand in the electronics world.
What Diodes Do
Diodes are basically the traffic cops or one-way streets of the electronics world. They are semiconductors that allow current to only run in one direction and keep it from going in the other. They are fairly simple components but they play a big role of keeping circuits running smoothly.
Some diodes called rectifiers can convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). You can see this at work in an automotive alternator.
Practical Applications of Diodes
One of the most common diode types is the light emitting diode, also known as an LED. LED lights have become more popular in recent years because they use less electricity to produce light. This makes them a good choice from a conservation point of view. They also cost less money to run. Common places you can find LEDs are in Christmas lights, watches, clocks, and even in the headlights on your car.
Diodes are also used in the surge protectors that you use on your computers or major electronics. They function to prevent power spikes to the appliance that is plugged into it.
Military Grade Diodes
Since diodes are important components of electronics, they serve a wide variety of military applications. Brands like Mircosemi diodes are designed to meet military specifications, so you know that they will meet high demand applications. You can find diodes used in many aerospace and defense applications as well as very advanced energy applications.
Diodes play an important part in communications. The first use for diodes was in AM radio. An AM signal consists of positive and negative peaks on a radio wave. The diode reduced the signal to just the positive peaks so that the sound could be filtered and broadcast.
Military Microsemi diodes are one brand of diode that is rigorously tested to be sure that it meets the very precise military specifications. This means that you can be confident that they will work properly in your electronic applications. Be sure to buy high quality diodes for your next electrical project.
