Recognize Electronic Component Symbols

As an electronic technician, it is important to be familiar with the various symbols used to represent different electronic components on circuit diagrams and schematics. These standardized symbols are used across the industry to represent the same components and functions.

One of the most basic electronic components is the resistor, which is used to resist the flow of electricity in a circuit. The symbol for a resistor is typically a zigzag line. Resistors are often used to regulate the flow of current in a circuit and to protect other components from damage caused by excessive current.

Another important component is the capacitor, which stores electrical charge. The symbol for a capacitor is typically a pair of parallel lines, with the letter "C" or "PC" written next to it. Capacitors often smooth out voltage fluctuations and filter out noise and interference.

The microprocessor is a computer's central processing unit (CPU) responsible for most calculations and processing tasks. The symbol for a microprocessor is typically a square with a small circle in the center.

Memory chips store data and instructions for the computer to use. The symbol for a memory chip is typically a rectangle with several lines or dots inside.

Voltage regulators are used to regulating the flow of electricity to different parts of the mainboard. The symbol for a voltage regulator is typically a rectangle with a zigzag line inside.

Interface controllers control the communication between different components and devices on the mainboard. The symbol for an interface controller is typically a rectangle with several smaller rectangles inside.

Power connectors provide power to the mainboard and other components. The symbol for a power connector is typically a rectangle with two parallel lines inside.

Fans help to keep the mainboard and other components cool. The symbol for a fan is typically a circle with two curved lines emanating from the center.

These are just a few examples of the many electronic component symbols that an electronic technician should be familiar with. By understanding these symbols and the components' functions, technicians can more easily troubleshoot and repair electronic systems and devices.

Resistors (represented by the letters R or PR)

Resistors are electronic components that resist the flow of electricity in a circuit. They are represented by the symbol "R" or "PR" on a circuit diagram or schematic. Resistors are typically made of a conductive material, such as carbon or metal, and regulate the current flow in a circuit.

Resistors are rated in ohms (Ω) units, representing the amount of resistance they provide to the current flow. The higher the resistance, the less current will flow through the resistor. Resistor values are usually indicated by color-coded bands on the resistor itself or by a numerical value on a circuit diagram.

Resistors are used in various electronic circuits and devices, including computers, smartphones, televisions, and many other types of electronic equipment. They are often used to protect other components from damage caused by excessive current, regulate the current flow in a circuit, and provide a known amount of resistance for testing and calibration purposes. As an electronic technician, it is important to be familiar with the function and use of resistors to effectively troubleshoot and repair electronic systems and devices.

Capacitors (Represented by C or PC)

Capacitors are electronic components that store electrical charge and are often found on mainboards and other electronic devices. They are typically represented by the symbol "C" or "PC" on a schematic or circuit diagram. Capacitors are used in a wide range of electronic circuits. They can perform various functions, including smoothing out voltage fluctuations, filtering noise and interference, and storing electrical energy.

Capacitors are typically made of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material called a dielectric. When a voltage is applied to the plates, an electrical field is created within the dielectric, which causes the capacitor to store an electrical charge. The amount of charge a capacitor can store is determined by its capacitance, measured in farads (F) units.

There are many different types of capacitors, each with its own characteristics and uses. Some common types of capacitors include ceramic capacitors, electrolytic capacitors, and film capacitors. Capacitors are commonly used in a wide range of electronic devices, including computers, smartphones, televisions, and many other types of electronic equipment.

Diode (Represented by the letter D or PD)

A diode is a two-terminal electronic component that allows current to flow in only one direction. It is represented by the symbol "D" or "PD" on a circuit diagram or schematic. Diodes are made of semiconductor material and are used in various electronic circuits and devices.

One of the main functions of a diode is to protect circuits from damage caused by reverse current, which is currently flowing in the opposite direction of the intended flow. When a diode is connected in a circuit with the correct polarity, it will allow current to flow through it easily. However, if the diode is connected with the wrong polarity, it will not allow current flow. This makes diodes useful for protecting circuits from damage caused by accidental reverse currents.

Diodes can also convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). This process is called rectification and is often used in power supplies and other electronic devices. Diodes are also used in voltage regulators, logic circuits, and many other applications.

There are many different diodes, each with specific characteristics and uses. Some common diodes include rectifier diodes, Zener diodes, and Schottky diodes. As an electronic technician, it is important to be familiar with the different types of diodes and their functions to troubleshoot and repair electronic systems and devices effectively.

Fuse (represented by the letter F or PF)

A fuse is an electrical safety device that protects circuits from damage caused by excessive current. It is represented by the symbol "F" or "PF" on a circuit diagram or schematic. When a fuse is connected in a circuit, it allows current to flow through it normally. However, if the current becomes too high, the fuse will "blow," which means it will interrupt the current flow and protect the circuit from damage.

Fuses are typically made of a thin wire or metal strip encased in a small, cylindrical glass or ceramic housing. The wire or strip is chosen based on how much current the fuse is designed to protect against. If the current exceeds the fuse's rating, the wire or strip will become hot and melt, interrupting the current flow.

Fuses are used in various electronic devices and systems to protect against electrical hazards and prevent damage. They are commonly found in household appliances, automobiles, and other electronic equipment. As an electronic technician, it is important to be familiar with the function of fuses and how to replace them when necessary.

Voltage Regulator

A voltage regulator is an electronic device that is used to maintain a constant voltage level at its output terminal. It provides a stable power supply to an electronic circuit, even when the input voltage or load current changes. The voltage regulator is designed to automatically adjust the output voltage to the desired level based on the circuit's input voltage and load requirements.

There are several types of voltage regulators, including linear voltage regulators and switching voltage regulators. Linear voltage regulators use a series of components, such as transistors and resistors, to adjust the output voltage based on the input voltage and load current. On the other hand, switching voltage regulators use a high-frequency switching technique to regulate the output voltage.

Voltage regulators are used in a wide range of electronic devices, including computers, smartphones, power supplies, and other electronic circuits that require a stable power supply. They help to protect electronic circuits from voltage fluctuations and help to ensure that the circuit is functioning properly.

Clock Oscillator 

A clock oscillator is an electronic oscillator circuit that generates a periodic signal, called a clock signal, which coordinates the timing of events in digital circuits. Clock oscillators are essential for synchronizing the operation of digital circuits and ensuring that they work in harmony.

Clock oscillators can be classified into two main types: crystal oscillators and RC oscillators. Crystal oscillators use a crystal resonator as the frequency-determining element, while RC oscillators use a combination of resistors and capacitors to determine the frequency.

Clock oscillators are used in various electronic devices, including computers, smartphones, and other digital circuits that require precise timing. They are also used in various other applications, such as clocks and watches, where they are used to generate the clock signal that drives the timekeeping mechanism.

Connectors (represented by the letters J, JP, CN, and others)

Connectors are devices used to mechanically join two or more electrical conductors or cables. They are used to establish an electrical connection between circuits and to allow electrical signals to be transmitted from one circuit to another.

There are many types of connectors, often identified by a letter code or abbreviation. Some common connector codes include:

• J: A J-type connector is a coaxial cable connector commonly used for RF (radio frequency) applications.
• JP: A JP-type connector is a coaxial cable connector similar to a J-type connector but with a smaller diameter.
• CN: A CN-type connector is a coaxial cable connector similar to a J-type connector but with a larger diameter.
• Others: There are many other connector codes and abbreviations, including SMA (subminiature version A), N (N-type), TNC (threaded Neill–Concelman), and many more.

Connectors are used in many electronic devices, including computers, smartphones, and other electronic circuits that require an electrical connection between components. They are also used in many other applications, such as in automotive, aviation, and telecommunications systems.