Freewheeling diode or resistor? How to protect circuits
If you have ever switched a relay or a small motor with a microcontroller, you may be familiar with this scenario: You switch off the output – and...
Read moreWhy your circuit fails in practical use - and how to make it robust
Many hobby electronics engineers know the problem: everything works perfectly on the breadboard, but as soon as the circuit is used in real life, it fails. Voltage peaks, EMC problems or a lack of...
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Microcontroller vs. microprocessor differences?
Microcontroller vs. microprocessor Anyone who takes a closer look at electronics and embedded systems will sooner or later come across the question: What is the difference between a microcontroller and a microprocessor?
Read moreWhat is a GPIO? Microcontroller basics
What is a GPIO? Microcontroller basics explained simply Whether Arduino, ESP32 or STM32 - they all have one thing in common: GPIOs. But what does GPIO actually mean and how does it...
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What is a pull-down resistor?
What is a pull-down resistor? Simply explained with an example You've already heard of the pull-up resistor - now it's time for its counterpart. It also ensures that digital...
Read moreWhat is a pull-up resistor?
What is a pull-up resistor? Explanation for beginners If you work with microcontrollers, buttons or digital inputs, sooner or later you will stumble across the term “pull-up resistor”....
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Calculate LED series resistor
If you want to use an LED in your circuit, there's one question you can hardly avoid: Which series resistor do I need to ensure that my LED lights up safely and reliably?
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N-channel or P-channel? How to choose the right MOSFET
MOSFETs have become an integral part of modern electronics. They switch efficiently, quickly and almost loss-free - ideal for microcontrollers, motor controllers, power supplies or LED applications. But...
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Transistors explained simply - Understanding & using NPN vs. PNP correctly
Transistors are real all-rounders in electronics. Whether as switches, amplifiers or signal converters - they can be found in almost every circuit. But many beginners ask themselves:...
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Diodes explained simply - how they work, types and applications
Diodes are the secret heroes of many electronic circuits. Whether power supply, LED lighting, voltage limiting or signal paths - they are everywhere. In this article you will find out what...
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