tams elektronik S88-4 Manual page 13

S88-4
Ceramic capacitors
Among other things ceramic capacitors are used for
filtering interference voltages or as frequency determining
parts. Ceramic capacitors are not polarized.
Normally they are marked with a three-digit number which
indicates the value coded. The number 104 corresponds to
the value 100 nF.
Diodes and Zener diodes
Diodes allow the current to pass through in one direction
only (forward direction), simultaneously the voltage is
reduced by 0,3 to 0,8 V. Exceeding of the limit voltage
always will destroy the diode, and allow current to flow in
the reverse direction.
Zener diodes are used for limiting voltages. In contrast to "normal"
diodes they are not destroyed when the limit voltage is exceeded.
The diode type is printed on the package.
Transistors
Transistors are current amplifiers which convert low signals into
stronger ones. There are several types in different package forms
available. The type designation is printed on the component.
Transistors for a low power rating (e.g. BC types, BS
types) have a package in form of a half zylinder (SOT-
package). The three pins of bipolar transistors (e.g. BC, BD
and BT types) are called basis, emitter and collector
(abbreviated with the letters B, E, C in the circuit diagram).
English
Page 13