Electronics Fundamentals

Quick Answer: The Electronics Information (EI) subtest has 16 questions in 8 minutes. Master Ohm's Law (V = IR), understand series vs. parallel circuits, and know the function of basic components (resistors, capacitors, transistors). Most questions test practical understanding of electrical concepts.

Basic Electrical Concepts

Voltage, Current, and Resistance

Ohm's Law

The most important formula in electronics:

$V = I \times R$

This can be rearranged to find any variable:

Example: If a circuit has 12 volts and 4 ohms of resistance, the current is I = 12 ÷ 4 = 3 amperes.

Power in Electrical Circuits

Power measures how much energy is used per second:

$P = V \times I$

$P = I^2 \times R$

$P = \frac{V^2}{R}$

Types of Current

AC vs. DC Quick Facts

Circuit Types

Series Circuits

In a series circuit, components are connected in a single path. Current is the same through all components.

Key Point: If one component fails in a series circuit, the entire circuit stops working (like old Christmas lights).

Parallel Circuits

In a parallel circuit, components have multiple paths. Voltage is the same across all branches.

Key Point: If one component fails in a parallel circuit, other branches continue working (like home electrical outlets).

Series vs. Parallel Summary

Electronic Components

Resistors

Function: Limit current flow, divide voltage

Memory Trick: "Bad Boys Race Our Young Girls But Violet Generally Wins"

Capacitors

Function: Store electrical charge, filter signals, smooth voltage

Transistors

Function: Amplify signals or act as electronic switches

Key transistor facts:

• Three terminals: Base, Collector, Emitter
• Small current at base controls large current through collector-emitter
• Foundation of all modern electronics and computers

Other Common Components

Electrical Safety

Common Electrical Terms