Ontological Layer: Component Taxonomy
Active & Passive Devices
The Actors in the Circuit
The Taxonomy of Control
Before we dive into semiconductor physics, we must classify the actors on the stage. This territory distinguishes the passive elements that simply store or dissipate energy from the active devices that inject power, amplify signals, and control the flow of electricity—transforming a static network into a computational machine.
ELEMENT →
ENERGY BEHAVIOUR →
DISSIPATE/STORE vs
CONTROL/AMPLIFY →
SIGNAL RESPONSE →
LINEAR/NONLINEAR →
MATHEMATICAL MODEL →
THERMAL LIMITS →
CIRCUIT ROLE
The 13 Device Classes
Vertical Ontology: Function, Limit & Model
NODE 01
Device Classification
vs
- Component vs Device
- Passive (R, L, C) Elements
- Active (Transistors, ICs)
- Energy Producing vs Absorbing
Energy Behavior
- Energy Dissipation (Heat)
- Energy Storage (Fields)
- Signal Amplification
- Energy Control Mechanisms
Signal Behavior
- Linear vs Nonlinear Devices
- Bilateral vs Unilateral Flow
- Time-Invariant vs Variant
- Memoryless vs Storage Devices
Terminal Geometry
- Two-Terminal Devices (Diodes)
- Multi-Terminal Devices (BJTs)
- Lumped Components
- Distributed Effects
The Passive Core
- Resistors (Opposition)
- Capacitors (Electric Field)
- Inductors (Magnetic Field)
- Transformers (Coupling)
Active Semiconductors
- Diodes & Zener Diodes
- BJT (Bipolar Control)
- JFET & MOSFET (Field Control)
- Operational Amplifiers
Controlled Sources
- VCVS (Volt-Ctrl Volt-Source)
- VCCS (Volt-Ctrl Curr-Source)
- CCVS (Curr-Ctrl Volt-Source)
- CCCS (Curr-Ctrl Curr-Source)
Sensors & Actuators
↔
- Sensors (Physical to Electric)
- Actuators (Electric to Physical)
- Switches & Relays
- Optoelectronic Devices
Device Characteristics
- V-I Characteristic Curves
- Input / Output Responses
- Operating Regions
- Parameters & Equations
Ratings & Limits
- Maximum Voltage / Current
- Power Ratings & Heat Sinks
- Thermal Behavior & Derating
- Breakdown Regions
Device Models
→
- Ideal vs Practical Models
- Piecewise Linear Models
- Equivalent Circuit Generation
- Mathematical Abstraction
Integrated Circuits
- IC Classifications
- Silicon Integration
- Miniaturization
- Power Devices & Arrays
13 — Device Selection Laboratory
[1] IDENTIFY ROLE [2] CHECK RATINGS [3] SELECT MODEL [4] ANALYZE V-I [5] VERIFY SOA
The engineering transition. Moving from understanding what a device is, to selecting the precise component needed to safely perform a required function within the limits of physics and heat.
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