PCB Glossary

In Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA), active components are electronic devices that can amplify, switch, or generate electrical signals. Active components form the heart of a circuit’s functionality, performing tasks like processing information, controlling power flow, and generating outputs. Active components require an external power supply–typically DC voltage–to operate. Examples of active components include integrated circuits (ICs), transistors, diodes, and optoelectronic devices like LEDs, photodiodes, and optocouplers.

An Ampere is a measurement of electric current. Amperage (A) signifies the rate of electron flow through a conductor, and is a fundamental unit of the International System of Units (SI). Every PCBA component boasts a current rating, specifying the maximum safe amperage it can handle. Exceeding this rating can lead to overheating, damage, or even fires. Understanding amperage is vital for designing PCBs that deliver sufficient current to power components without overloading traces or the power supply.