Encoders are sensing devices that operate with high speed and accuracy to provide feedback about the motion of objects to control systems. The feedback allows the control system to determine whether the observed object is being positioned correctly, permitting adjustments as necessary. These devices are also used to measure speed, position, direction, and have the ability to provide a count of the object at hand. Due to their versatile functions, there are many types of encoders, a few of which will be covered in this blog. Read more >>
Drills are a commonly used tool for countless projects, capable of creating pilot holes and rapidly installing fasteners into surfaces. Depending on the type of job that is being carried out, there are various types of drill bits that one can utilize, each differing in characteristics such as size, length, and design. In this blog, we will provide a brief overview of the most common drill bit types, allowing you to better understand the roles that they serve and how they are used. Read more >>
A type of electrical component, a diode allows current to flow in a single direction, but can emit or sense light based on which specialized model is used. Important for assisting the necessary functions of semiconductors in various digital and linear circuits, diode arrays are discrete electrical diode devices often consisting of unconnected diodes assembled along a linear package. Also referred to as a semiconductor package, diode arrays typically come with four diodes in a single assembly, but are available in a variety of designs and configurations for optimal part compatibility. To better answer any questions you may have on diode arrays, we will discuss how they amplify electrical processes to provide improved reliability, high density packaging, faster assembly speeds, and fewer parts in comparison to individually packaged diodes. Read more >>
Circuit breakers and fuses are electrical protection devices that may be interchangeable with one another based on the application they are used for, and they both commonly serve as a precautionary measure against overload conditions. Serving a similar purpose, both devices help safeguard the integrity of an electrical circuit from fires and electrical damage caused by surges in electricity. As devices that can prevent your home, workplace, appliances, vehicles, infrastructure, and more from potentially disastrous scenarios, we will break down how and why circuit breaker and fuse devices are not only advantageous, but can potentially save lives. Read more >>
When discussing display technologies, cathode ray tube (CRT) and liquid-crystal display (LCD) technologies are often the most talked about types. While CRTs and LCDs have dominated the display market for many decades, plasma is an alternative that may be useful for certain applications. Plasma display panels (PDP) are displays that utilize small cells containing plasma for creating images, and they are an upgrade from CRT technology with their performance and characteristics. In this blog, we will discuss plasma displays, allowing you to have a better understanding of their functionality. Read more >>
When designing embedded applications for the operation of automobile engine control systems, office machines, power tools, medical devices, and other such systems, a microcontroller is a component that is paramount for such assemblies. As a small computer placed onto a MOS integrated circuit, a microcontroller functions with the use of its processor cores, memory, and peripherals. As devices that are capable of governing parts of a larger component without the need of an operating system, understanding how microcontrollers function can be useful for various types of manufacturing and system design. Read more >>
When purchasing locks, the amount of options can quickly become overwhelming. There are many different types of locks that provide different security factors, and all should be considered before purchasing. Of the many types of locks, the four most common are padlocks, deadbolts, knob locks, and lever locks. This blog will discuss each type. Read more >>
Whether you are attaching the skin of an aircraft or creating robust assemblies for infrastructure, fasteners serve as a critical aspect of construction. As hardware components that can affix two or more parts together in permanent or non-permanent fashion, fasteners are used in countless industries for a wide variety of applications. Blind rivets and pop rivets are two fastener types that are regularly used in construction, and they are often confused with one another for their many similarities. As each rivet type slightly differs in its characteristics that benefit certain situations, understanding the functionality and application of each can be very useful for anyone who regularly uses fasteners. Read more >>
There is a vast and diverse range of connector types available today. As such, it can be difficult to differentiate each kind. While most people can tell the standard connector types, many, even experts, can have trouble identifying the gender of reverse polarity connectors. This blog will explain the difference between male and female polarity connectors, whether standard or reverse. Read more >>
Solenoids are a common type of electromagnet that are often presented in the form of a wire coiled around a metallic base or housing. By creating a magnetic field through the induction of electricity, a solenoid may benefit applications that are medical, automotive, industrial, and more with their capabilities. In this blog, we will discuss how solenoids work, allowing you to best understand how they benefit various industries and applications through their use. Read more >>
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