bus: A connection point.cable:Sets of two or more wires that are protected by an outer insulation
layer. The common power cord is an example of a cable.capacitance: The ability to store electrons. You measure capacitance in
farads.capacitor: A component in a circuit providing the property of capacitance.
See alsoelectrolytic capacitor, ceramic capacitor, tantalum capacitor.cathode:The negative terminal of a diode. See alsoanode.ceramic capacitor: One of the most common types of capacitor. This type is
used for smaller values of capacitance. See alsocapacitor.circuit: Wires that connect components in such a way that a current flows
through the components and returns to the source.closed circuit: A circuit with connected wires, so that current is able to flow.
See alsoopen circuit.closed position:The position of a switch in which current can flow. See also
open position.CMOS:A type of IC that is very sensitive to ESD. See alsointegrated circuit,
static electricity.cold solder joints: A bad joint. These happen when solder doesn’t flow prop-
erly around metal parts.commutator: A device that changes the direction of electric current in a
motor or generator.components:The parts you use in electronics projects, such as a capacitor
or resistor.conductor: A material through which electricity moves freely.connector: Metal or plastic receptacles on equipment into which you can fit
cable ends.continuity: A multimeter test of whether a circuit is intact between two
points. See alsomultimeter.current:The flow of an electrical charge.382 Electronics Projects For Dummies
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