Diodes are common to numerous electrical devices, and the PIN diode in particular is a variation of the PN-junction that may benefit various applications. As an advancement over conventional PN-junction diodes, the PIN diode comes in the form of a 3-layer device where an intrinsic layer is situated between P and N regions. The intrinsic region of the diode allows for the component to feature high properties of resistance, coupled with a large electric field. As a result, the electronic and hole pair generation of the region is increased so that a weak input signal may be operated.
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As aircraft continue to advance over the years with the implementation of glass cockpits, improved entertainment systems, and other various electronics, they are increasingly becoming dependent on electricity for their functionalities. Power can come from a number of sources, and the alternator is a common equipment piece that serves many aircraft requirements for powering all electrical components and recharging the battery. As a crucial aspect of countless aircraft, having a general understanding of the alternator and its functionality can be very beneficial.
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A switch is an electrical device used to manually or automatically create or break an electrical circuit. Switches can be mechanical or electronic. Mechanical switches are operated physically, while electronic switches are activated by semiconductor action. Generally speaking, switches are classified into four types: Single Pole Single Throw (SPST), Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT), Double Pole Single Throw (DPST), and Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT).
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An aircraft tach generator is an electromechanical device that is capable of determining the speed of motors, engines, and other various rotational devices. When implemented on an aircraft, such devices are regularly used to measure the revolutions of the engine, indicating engine RPM and/or rotor RPM. As tach generator devices are common to aircraft applications, understanding how they are designed and how they function can be useful for any pilot or aircraft engineer.
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