What is an oscillator? Simply explained
Without oscillators, there would be no clocks, no microcontrollers, no radios, no sounds—in short, no modern electronics. But what exactly is an oscillator? And why do we need it?
Read moreFreewheeling 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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