IB Design Technology Topic A3.4: Introduction to Electronic Systems Key Definitions

Components that control the flow of electricity and can amplify signals or switch currents, such as transistors and diodes.

An electronic system that has a permanently variable signal.

A binary digit has either a value of 0 or 1. These values correspond to on and off signals in electronic circuits.

An electronic component that stores and releases electrical energy by holding an electric charge between two conductive plates.

Circuit diagrams are visual representations of electronic circuits, using symbols for components and lines to show connections.

A closed-loop system uses feedback to adjust its output, ensuring it meets the desired criteria.

The flow of electric charge through a circuit, caused by the movement of electrically charged particles, such as electrons. Measured in amperes (A)

An electronic system that uses binary signals, i.e. 0 or 1, on or off.

An electronic component that allows current to flow in only one direction, acting like a one-way valve in a circuit.

A computerised system designed to perform a specific set of tasks within a larger device, often with real-time control and limited user interaction.

A process where the output of a system is returned as input, helping to adjust or control the system and create a closed-loop.

The rate at which an electrical signal alternates between positive and negative per second, measured in hertz (Hz).

What is put into a system

Everyday objects and devices embedded with computing technology that are interconnected through the internet, allowing them to send, receive, and respond to data.

A digital device that performs a Boolean function, controlling whether an input signal passes through to the output based on logical rules (e.g., AND, OR, NOT).

A compact integrated circuit used to control specific operations in an embedded system. It contains a processor, memory, and input/output interfaces all in one chip.

An open-loop system operates without feedback, meaning it does not adjust based on the output.

An electronic device that amplifies weak signals.

What comes out of a system

Components that do not control or amplify electrical signals, but instead store, resist, or transfer energy, such as resistors, capacitors, and inductors.

Components that are responsible for interpreting, manipulating and storing data in an electronic system

An electronic switch that is activated by a current or signal to open or close another circuit, allowing a low-power signal to control a high-power circuit.

The opposition to the flow of electrons in an electrical circuit. It can be calculated using Ohm’s Law, which relates resistance (R), voltage (V), and current (I): R=V/I. Measured in ohms (Ω)

An electronic component that limits or controls the flow of electric current in a circuit.