Hello seekers! I hope you all are doing great. Today, we are interested to learn about a basic and one of the most crucial topics in the field of electronics that is, the difference between active and passive components. Knowing the difference between these two is not only fruitful for beginners but also helps to understand the output and nature of electrical and electronic devices throughout the circuit design process.
While designing electrical or electronic circuits, it is crucial to get the best components. There are different features that affect the performance of these tiny components, including material, type, manufacturing techniques, etc. It's a good practice to get the components from a trusted source, and I suggest you buy them from PCBWay. This is one of the most trusted sources not only for buying the components, but it helps the customer from designing the PCB to prototyping as well. It is the one-stop for almost all the circuit manufacturing and assembly.
The buyer simply has to visit the website, where thousands of quality products, including active and passive components, are listed with all the details. The buyer can see and select the best match for the project. They can see the raw material, packaging, product number, description, and other details so that even a person with no technical knowledge can choose the best product. So, I recommend you visit PCBWay Fabrication House online, and you can order your components from anywhere.
These two categories are differentiated by different parameters, and we’ll discuss them in detail. We’ll start with a simple comparison between the active and passive components and after that, we’ll discuss each and every point in detail to gain a grip on the concept. We’ll study the introduction, features, and examples of these components and in the end, we’ll see where we can get the best components in the most convenient way. Let’s start with the difference:
A circuit is made of different types of components, and it is not completed unless all the necessary components are properly designed. It requires the components, the wires to create the connection between them, and the external source as well. Before designing any circuit, the most important step is to know the nature of its components. On a border scale, the electrical components are classified into two categories:
There are different ways to differentiate these two and we’ll discuss these in detail. The structure, features, material, and other basic features decide the category. At a higher level, the circuit is not complete until it uses both these types. The details of these components will be shared with you in just a bit but before this, have a look at this chart that summarizes the difference between these two types:
Feature |
Active Components |
Passive Components |
Power Source |
Require an external power source to work such as a battery, power supply, etc |
Do not require external power for their functioning the internal structure is enough for this |
Function |
|
|
Examples |
|
|
Gain |
Can provide power gain, which means they amplify signals |
Cannot provide power gain, therefore attenuating or weakening signals in the circuit |
Control |
Can actively control the flow of current and voltage |
Can passively influence the flow of current and voltage |
Complexity |
These are generally more complex because they are made from semiconductors |
Generally simpler because these are made from basic materials |
Applications |
|
|
Examples of use in a circuit |
Transistors amplify a weak signal in a microphone; ICs process data in a computer |
Resistors control the brightness of LEDs, and capacitors smooth out the voltage from a battery |
The details of this table are explained here in the form of a basic introduction of active and passive components. I’ve tried to show the introduction in such a way that you can compare it easily.
The active components provide an active influence when electricity is applied to the circuit. These are the semiconductor materials that possess features like an amplification of the output, electrical current flow, electrical signal generation, etc. In simple words, active components work with the external power source and actively contribute to signal manipulation. The following are the fundamental features that help to understand the basics of active components:
As mentioned before, these components always require an external power or electricity source to start working. Therefore, these are the semiconductor components that are useless when there is no external power source.
Active components can amplify, switch, or manipulate the electrical signals of the circuits. These are also referred to as master conductors because they direct the current with great precision.
The superpower of the active components for which these are recognized is the amplification of the signals. A weak or low-frequency signal can be amplified with these components, and these can crank into a more audible or usable form.
Another feature that is associated with the active components is the lighting speed of these components to switch the electrical signals on and off. These are considered the digital traffic signals that control the electrical flow in the circuit.
These are usually semiconductors, and the scope of these components is not just limited to simple electronic circuits; complex circuits, such as solar cells, have the implementation of active components.
Some important examples of the active components will help us understand them thoroughly.
The passive components are entitled to be the workhorses of the electric circuit world. These are the fundamental components that are essentially required in circuits. These are different from the active component because they generate their energy to work. The following features of these components will help you understand why they are called "passive" components:
The main feature of a passive component is its ability to interact with the circuit using the present electrical signal or the energy of the circuit.
The passive components have different ways in which they can affect the flow of electrical current, voltage, or the frequency of the circuit. Some of these ways are:
Controlling the electrical flow
Filter the energy
Store the power and electricity
Distribute electrical energy in the circuit
These features result in the shaping of the electrical circuit's performance according to the requirements.
These components are present in different sizes and shapes, and they are the basic building blocks when complex circuits are designed. Collectively, these components can create the circuits that perform the variations in the tasks.
The most common example of a passive component is a resistor. These regulate the flow of electricity and are considered tiny dams in the circuit. There is a large variety of resistors therefore, these are usable in almost all types of circuits and are the most crucial part of these circuits.
The capacitors are also passive components of the circuit. These can store electrical energy in the form of electrical fields because of their internal structure. These are the tiny batteries that help in the voltage regulation of the circuits. The main use of capacitors is in circuits where the direct current (DC) of the current has to be blocked and the circuit only allows the alternative current (AC).
Inductors are the passive components that deal with the magnetic field around them. These act like mini electromagnets and oppose the change in the current. As a result, these smooth the electrical fluctuations and can be used to filter unwanted signals as well.
Hence, in this way, you know the difference between the active and passive components. These are the fundamental concepts of electrical circuits, and if these are clear, the user can design, learn, and understand the complex concept in no time. We started with a chart of the differences between these components and then explained each point in detail. We saw the definitions, features, and examples of both types in the end. Moreover, we also understood the best way to easily buy any type of electrical component from PCBWay. I hope I have discussed all the things in detail, but if you want to know more, you can ask in the comment section.
Hey pals! Welcome to the next article where we're studying a gas sensor from the MQ sensor series. Today, we’ll understand the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor and will know the basic information about this product. This sensor has sensitivity for gases like LPG, isobutane propane etc and it is widely used to check any leakage of these gases. These are the commonly used gases but any leakage or excessive use may be harmful and even life-threatening. In such cases, sensors like MQ-6 are proved one of the most important devices.
In this article, we’ll start the discussion with the introduction of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor. After that, we’ll move towards the datasheet of this product in which we’ll study the specifications, features, and some graphs that will show its working. After that, we’ll work on the working principle and physical dimensions of this sensor and in the end, we’ll see some common examples of the applications in which this sensor is widely used.
Let’s move towards the first topic:
Butane gas is not only used in houses but has a major role in multiple industries where it is used as a fuel. It is a common source of energy for factories but using safety precautions is the most important point to keep in mind and here, the duty of the sensor like MQ-6 starts. The MQ-6 LPG butane sensor detects the presence of leakage in the gases and provides the information in the form of analog values so that the user may know the amount of the gas present in the surroundings.
At the core of this gas sensor, there is a small and sensitive structure of different components that allow it to detect the LPG butane gas from the surroundings with the help of a change in the electrical conductivity. The basic components of this sensor are:
Micro AL2O3 ceramic tube
Sno2 (tin dioxide) layer
Measuring electrode
Heater
plastic and stainless steel net
Base
These components collectively prepare a small sensor compatible with different types of circuits. The following are the gases that can be detected using the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor:
Butane (C4H10)
Propane (C3H8)
Methane (CH4)
Alcohol vapors
Benzene
Carbon monoxide (CO)
Hydrogen (H2)
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)
The sensitivity of the MQ-6 sensor varies according to the type of the gas.
Before using any electrical component, always check the datasheet for detailed information on the product. In the case of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor, here are the important points that one must know:
As mentioned before, this sensor has a high sensitivity to LPG, iso-butane, propane and other similar gases.
It has a small sensitivity to gases like alcohol, and smoke but is not suitable to be used as only a sensor for these gases.
This sensor shows a fast response so is a reliable choice.
It works continuously therefore providing stable results and having a long life.
This sensor runs on the simple drive circuit
As soon as it is turned on, it takes only 20 seconds to preheat and starts working.
It can be used as a Digital or analogue sensor because it has both pins
The user can vary the Sensitivity of the digital pin using the potentiometer in its structure
The following table is the evidence of its different specifications regarding different types of parameters:
Category |
Parameter |
Technical Condition |
Remarks |
Standard Work Condition |
Circuit voltage (Vc) |
5V ± 0.1 V (AC or DC) |
N/A |
Heating voltage (Vh) |
5V ± 0.1 V (AC or DC) |
||
Load resistance (PL) |
20 KΩ |
||
Heater resistance (RH) |
33 Ω ± 5% |
||
Heating consumption (PH) |
Less than 750 mW |
||
Environment Condition |
Operating temperature (Tao) |
-10°C to 50°C |
|
Storage temperature (Tas) |
-20°C to 70°C |
||
Relative humidity (RH) |
Less than 95% |
||
Oxygen concentration (O2) |
21% (standard condition) |
Minimum value is over 2% |
|
Sensitivity Characteristic |
Sensing resistance (Rs) |
10 KΩ - 60 KΩ (1000 ppm LPG) |
N/A |
Concentration slope rate (α) |
≤ 0.6 (1000 ppm / 4000 ppm LPG) |
Standard detecting condition: Temp: 20°C ± 2°C, Vc: 5V ± 0.1 V, Humidity: 65% ± 5%, Vh: 5V ± 0.1 V, Preheat time over 24 hours |
|
Detecting concentration scope |
200-10000 ppm |
LPG, iso-butane, propane, LNG |
The basic compoeents of the MQ-6 LPG butane sensor have been discussed before but now, let’s have a look at the internal structure of this sensor to understand its working. Here is the circuit diagram for this purpose:
The detail of each label and its description is written here in the table below:
Component |
Material |
Description |
1 |
SnO2 |
Gas sensing layer - responsible for detecting target gases through changes in resistance. |
2 |
Au |
Electrodes - facilitate electrical contact with the gas sensing layer. |
3 |
Pt |
Electrode line - connects the electrodes to the external circuitry. |
4 |
Ni-Cr alloy |
Heater coil - provides heat to activate the gas sensing layer and increase sensitivity. |
5 |
Al2O3 |
Tubular ceramic - housing and support for the gas sensor components. |
6 |
Stainless steel gauze (SUS316 100-mesh) |
Anti-explosion network - prevents flame propagation into the sensor body. |
7 |
Copper plating Ni |
Clamp ring - secures the sensor components within the tubular ceramic. |
8 |
Bakelite |
Resin base - provides mechanical support and electrical insulation for the sensor. |
9 |
Copper plating Ni |
Tube pin - electrical connection point for the sensor. |
The MQ-6 LPG butane gas can detect multiple gases but the sensitivity varies according to the type of the gas. With the help of continuous experimentation, the sensitivity of this detector can be examined using the graph given below:
Here, other parameters such as temperature and humidity are kept constant. The above image shows the sensitivity of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor in the range of 100-1000 ppm. Here,
Rs:
It stands for sensing resistance.
It represents the actual resistance of the sensor in the presence of a specific gas concentration.
It changes based on the gas concentration which decreases as the concentration increases.
Ro:
It stands for Reference Resistance.
It represents the sensor's resistance in clean air (absence of target gases).
It is usually measured when the sensor is powered on and heated to operating temperature in a gas-free environment.
Rs/Ro:
It represents the ratio of sensing resistance (Rs) to reference resistance (Ro).
This ratio provides a normalized value to compare the sensor's response across different gas concentrations and environmental conditions.
The higher Rs/Ro values generally indicate the presence of higher gas concentrations.
If you want to have more detail about its datasheet you can visit the link below and get all the information:
The four-pin MQ-6 butane gas sensor is easy to install and has the simple pin configuration that is mentioned in the table below:
Pin Name |
Description |
Vcc |
This is the power Pin that requires an operating voltage of 5V. |
GND |
Ground pin connected to the ground terminal of the circuit |
DO |
It is a digital output pin that needs to set the threshold value using a Pot. |
AO |
Analog out the pin. It based the output of this pin on the intensity of the LPG or other gas. |
For the convenience of the users, the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor is present in different types of packages. Here is a brief introduction of these:
Package Type |
Description |
Size |
DIP (Dual In-Line Package) |
Standard through-hole package with pins for soldering to a PCB |
Varies between manufacturers (e.g., 20x20x30mm) |
SMD (Surface Mount Device) |
Smaller package designed for surface mounting on PCBs |
Varies between manufacturers (e.g., 10x10x5mm) |
Module Package |
Pre-assembled module with additional components like voltage regulators and filtering capacitors |
Varies between manufacturers |
The butane is a widely used gas, therefore, there are different alternatives present in the market that have the same good performance as the MQ-6 LPG butane. Some of these belong to the MQ family and others are from different classes. Here are some alternatives:
MQ-2
MQ-3
MQ-4
MQ-5
MQ-7
MQ-8
MQ-9
MQ135
MiCS-5525/5526
SGX Sensortech MiniMOS
CityTech SEN5X
Senseair NDIR sensors
SGX Sensortech IR sensors
The electrical components are delicate and the performance varies because of different parameters. Here are some platforms where you can have the best quality MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensors:
eBay
AliExpress
Amazon
The working of the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor is similar to the other MQ sensors. I have divided the working principle into different steps and will understand the basic flow:
When the sensor is turned on, the circuit starts heating the core of this sensor that has the sensitive element SnO2 layer. This process is done to maintain a temperature of around 300°C (572°F) which activates the sensing element and it starts absorbing the oxygen from the surrounding air.
The result of the reaction in the previous step creates the depletion region around the sensing element. As a result, the electrical conductivity of the circuit decreases because of the high resistance.
Once the MQ-6 LPG sensor comes into contact with the target gas, the oxygen ions from the depletion region start reacting with the gas molecules and as a result, the depletion region starts adsorbing. This causes the reduction in the number of oxygen ions and the overall conductivity increase.
The circuit of the sensor measures the change in the resistance and the electrical current as well. The change in the current is directly proportional to the amount of the target gas in the environment. In this way, the analog values are sent to the output device through the analog output pin.
The MQ-6 provides the feature of digital output as well. The analog values, when exceeding the threshold value set through the potentiometer, are converted into the digital output and the sensor sends the signal through the digital pin. This is useful because usually, this pin is connected to the alarm and in the systems like an automatic alarm that shows the signal of the LPT butane gas presence.
Dimension |
Value |
Units |
Length |
32 |
millimeters (mm) |
Width |
20 |
millimeters (mm) |
Height |
22 |
millimeters (mm) |
Weight |
7 |
grams (g) |
Package Type |
DIP (Dual In-Line) |
- |
Pin Count |
6 |
- |
Pin Spacing |
2.54 |
millimeters (mm) |
Here is a list of simple and basic examples that show the applications where the MQ-6 LPG butane gas sensor is extensively used:
Portable Gas Detection Devices
So, we have studied the MQ-6 LPG butane sensor in detail. We have started our discussion with the basic introduction of this sensor. We’ve seen the gases it can detect, the details of the datasheet, its pinout configuration, working graphs, its internal features, and the working principle in detail. After that, we saw the alternatives and package details along with the physical dimension of this sensor. In the end, we saw examples of different domains where this sensor is widely used. I hope I have covered all the points and you like the content.
The LCD technology is probably one of the ones with the longest-standing history. The LCD display managed to survive for so many years in the market because it’s versatile and flexible. And those are the main qualities a piece of technology should have. Today, consumers are constantly searching for the next gadget to provide them with a completely new experience. And color LCD screens definitely took that assignment seriously.
They’ve definitely come a long way since the initial models. It’s almost impossible to even make a comparison between the robust models of the past and the elegant displays we have now.
Initially, LCD technology started out with large and heavy monochrome screens. And don’t get us wrong, these black and white screens were very popular back then and are even now. But color LCDs brought something new to the scene. Monochrome screens started the long history of LCDs and they marked the first important milestone.
Back then, the black and white screens were the most modern LCD model you can find. And they provided their users with an enjoyable visual experience . Today, you can still see how widespread the use of monochrome displays is. You can still find them in calculators, digital wristwatches and devices used outdoors. They are even used in more complex applications such as industrial settings. So, there’s no denying their simplicity and quality.
But what do color screens have to offer? What kind of experience can they offer? To find out more, keep reading as we try to dig a bit deeper and see what makes these displays so special.
The fascinating technology behind color LCD screens includes several different components that all blend together. First of all, we have the liquid crystals that are at the very center of the display technology. They were first used back in 1970. And behind the liquid crystals, there is a layer of backlight that serves to illuminate the display. They contain different components and help produce images on the screen.
There are also color filters included. They are usually red, green and blue(RGB). They help create the desired color output you see on the screen. TFT or thin-film-transistors are another crucial component. They allow precise control over the liquid crystals. And finally, color LCDs also have polarizers that control light polarization.
As mentioned, color LCD screens are used across different industries thanks to their versatility. These vibrant displays have found their purpose in many different types of applications and are used to improve communication, productivity and user experience. Some of the industries where this technology has found its place are listed below.
Color LCD screens are widely used in consumer electronics. Anyone who owns a smartphone, laptop or a modern television system, knows what we’re talking about. These displays offer vibrant colors and high resolutions that give users a high-quality viewing experience. With color LCDs you can easily enjoy your favorite entertaining content.
The automotive industry is quickly changing and each new motor vehicle has new handy features. Most of the displays used in motor vehicles are in fact color LCD screens. They display all the important information to drivers and make sure the drivers have a safe driving experience.
Also, all the entertainment devices within a motor vehicle, especially the ones found in the latest car models, also use color LCDs to provide easy access to drivers.
Healthcare professionals need to be able to quickly read information on medical devices for a quick diagnostic process. That’s where color displays enter the stage. These displays allow medical staff to get detailed images on their X-ray machines and MRI scanners. They are also used in ultrasound machines and other medical imaging equipment.
A passionate gamer knows the importance of having a high-quality and sharp image. A high-quality color LCD can offer high refresh rates and low response times, everything a gamer needs to smoothly play their favorite games. Color LCDs are used in consoles and other handheld gaming devices .
Color LCDs are used in industrial control panels and in digital signage in industrial settings. They provide operators with exact data and give clear visual feedback for improved monitoring.
Color displays have also found their place in aircraft cockpits. They are used to display flight information, navigation data and engine performance metrics. They are highly-readable and are efficient in all lighting conditions. They are also a great option for applications in direct sunlight
Multimedia displays and interactive whiteboards also employ color screens to provide learners with an engaging learning experience. They make learning more engaging and allow access to interactive content.
Color LCDs are definitely a piece of technology that keeps improving and developing to satisfy the needs of modern consumers. As you can see, the vibrant screen is used across different industries to display sharp and high-resolution content. From automotive and aircraft industries to healthcare and gaming, color LCDs serve to show information in a clear way and allow users to quickly decipher the information displayed.
We have yet to see what these screens have in store for the future but we can safely assume that they’ll continue to surprise and keep providing an immersive viewing experience.
Industrial valves have been an integral part of various industries for centuries, enabling the control and regulation of fluid and gas flow. However, the environmental impact of these valves, particularly in relation to leakage and waste generation, has become a growing concern. Let’s explore the significance of addressing the environmental impact of industrial valves and discuss strategies to mitigate leakage and reduce waste. By adopting advanced technologies and implementing effective leak prevention measures, businesses can minimize their ecological footprint while also benefiting economically.
Over the years, valve designs have evolved significantly, adapting to the needs of various industries. From simple designs to complex mechanisms, manufacturers have focused on improving valve performance and efficiency. Technological advancements have played a crucial role in this evolution, allowing for more accurate control of fluid and gas flow. Modern valve technologies also feature enhanced sealing and leak prevention mechanisms, reducing the likelihood of leakage and waste generation. The integration of digital systems has further facilitated remote monitoring and control, enabling prompt detection and response to potential issues.
The adoption of modern valve technologies offers various benefits for businesses and the environment alike. One significant advantage is increased efficiency and accuracy in controlling fluid and gas flow. By ensuring precise regulation, industries can minimize energy consumption and reduce their environmental impact. Advanced sealing mechanisms significantly reduce the risk of valve leakage. The prevention of leaks not only preserves valuable resources, but also prevents environmental contamination caused by the release of harmful substances into soil, water, and air. The integration of digital systems also enables remote monitoring, which facilitates early detection of anomalies and prompt rectification, reducing the risk of extensive damage and waste generation.
Valve leakage can have substantial financial implications for businesses and industries. The costs associated with repair, replacement, and the resulting product loss can quickly accumulate. The loss of valuable resources due to leakage can also lead to increased operational expenses. However, by implementing effective leak prevention measures, such as proper maintenance and regular inspections, businesses can minimize these financial burdens. Investing in technologies and practices that prevent leakage and extend the lifespan of valves can result in significant cost savings in the long run.
Valve leakage can occur internally or externally, and both types have detrimental consequences for the environment. Internal leakage refers to leaks that occur within the valve, while external leakage involves leaks in the surrounding piping system. Valve leakage contributes to environmental contamination and resource wastage, thereby exacerbating the ecological impact. Addressing and preventing valve leakage is paramount for industries committed to sustainable practices.
Valve leakage poses a considerable threat to the environment, particularly in terms of soil, water, and air contamination. When valves leak, pollutants can seep into the soil, compromising its quality and potential for agricultural use. This contamination can also affect natural water sources, leading to water pollution and ecosystem disruption. Moreover, when gasses or vapors escape through valve leaks, they contribute to air pollution. Preventing valve leakage is crucial for safeguarding these vital environmental resources and minimizing the impact on both human and ecological health.
In addition to the environmental consequences, valve leakage also results in significant resource wastage. Every drop or unit of fluid that is leaked represents a loss of valuable resources. This wastage directly affects industries, as it translates into increased costs and reduced operational efficiency. By implementing effective strategies for leak prevention, industries can minimize resource wastage and optimize their operations.
To mitigate valve leakage and reduce waste generation, businesses should follow several key strategies. First, installation best practices should be adhered to, ensuring proper sealing, connection, and alignment of valves within the piping system. Regular maintenance and inspections play a crucial role in identifying early signs of valve degradation and potential leakage. Partnering with reputable valve manufacturers can ensure the use of high-quality valves that are less prone to leakage. The versatile Chaoda valves (cast carbon and stainless steel gate, globe, and swing check valves), known for their reliability and innovative designs, offer a range of products that prioritize leak prevention and durability. By choosing trusted manufacturers, businesses can enhance their leak-prevention efforts.
Maximizing the lifespan of valves not only contributes to leak prevention but also offers various benefits for businesses and the environment . Proper maintenance practices, such as regular lubrication and cleaning, can significantly extend the lifespan of valves. Additionally, providing adequate training to personnel involved in valve operation and maintenance ensures the correct handling and care of these critical components. By investing in the proper training and maintenance of valves, businesses can reduce the need for frequent replacements, minimize waste generation, and enhance their operational efficiency.
Industrial valves have been a critical component in various industries for centuries, enabling the control and regulation of fluid and gas flow. However, their environmental impact, particularly in terms of leakage and waste generation, has become a pressing concern. By adopting advanced technologies, implementing effective leak prevention measures, and partnering with reputable valve manufacturers, businesses can significantly reduce their ecological footprint while also benefiting economically.
Preventing valve leakage is not only essential for preserving the environment but also for minimizing resource wastage. Each drop or unit of fluid that escapes through leaks represents a loss of valuable resources. By implementing effective strategies for leak prevention, businesses can minimize this resource wastage and optimize their operations. Proper installation practices, regular maintenance, and thorough inspections play key roles in identifying and addressing potential leakage issues. By extending the lifespan of valves, businesses can reduce the need for frequent replacements, ultimately reducing waste generation and operational expenses.
Addressing the environmental impact of industrial valves requires a proactive approach. By embracing advanced valve technologies, businesses not only reduce their ecological footprint but also reap economic benefits through increased efficiency and cost savings. Preventing valve leakage preserves valuable resources and prevents environmental contamination. By following proper maintenance practices and partnering with reputable manufacturers, businesses can achieve sustainable practices and minimize waste generation, and contribute to a greener, more efficient industrial landscape, ensuring a sustainable and responsible future for all.