IB Design Technology Topic B3.4: Electronic Systems Application and Selection Key Definitions

The fifth generation of mobile network technology, offering faster speeds, lower latency, and greater connectivity than previous generations.

A basic digital logic gate that gives a high output (1) only when all inputs are high (1). It has two or more inputs and one output.

A wireless communication standard for short-range data exchange between electronic devices, such as phones, speakers, and computers.

A logic-based mathematical system where variables are either “true” (1) or “false” (0), used to analyse and design digital circuits.

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

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.

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 visual representation of actions and decisions in a sequence, showing how a system progresses toward an outcome.

An instrument used to measure electrical properties such as current, voltage, and resistance.

A digital logic gate that acts as a logical inverter, giving an output that is the opposite of the input: if the input is true (1), the output is false (0), and vice versa.

A digital logic gate that gives a high output (1) if at least one input is high (1). It only outputs low (0) when all inputs are low (0).

An instrument that displays and analyzes electrical waveforms, showing how signals change over time.

A circuit where the electrical path splits into branches, so current divides and only part flows through each branch.

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.

A circuit where components are connected one after another in a single loop, so current flows through each component in turn.

Charts that show all possible input combinations for a logic circuit and their corresponding output values, helping to analyse and predict circuit behavior.

The electromotive force from a power source that pushes electrons through a circuit, often described as electric pressure. Measured in volts (V)

A wireless communication technology that uses radio waves to provide high-speed internet and network connectivity without physical cables.