Week 3 Flashcards
Define oscilloscope
A device whose primary function is to measure voltage as a function of time
Define function generator
Versatile power supplies for prototype electric circuits. Used to test the response of circuits, or to mimic an external signal
Function generators produce functions known as __________
Waveforms. Sine, square, and saw-tooth waves
Define sensor
Any element that converts electromechanical information into an electric signal
Define switch
The simplest sensor, detects whether or not someone has pressed it
There are various types of switches - they can be identified by their ____ and ____
Poles, throws
Define pole
An electrically separate circuit controlled by a physical actuator
Define throw
The number of different electrical paths that can be selected by the physical actuator
What does ‘NO’ and ‘NC’ mean for switches? (i.e., NO-SPST, NC-SPST)
Normally-open or normally-closed
Define optical encoder
Tracks the speed and position of a motor. As the motor shaft rotates, a paired light and optical sensor measure the rotation speed.
Define incremental encoder
Provides information about the relative motion of the motor shaft
Define absolute encoder
Provides information about the rotation angle of the motor shaft
A single light+detector pair can tell the _____ of the motor. An off-set double light+detector pair can further tell the _________________
Speed, direction of rotation
Define thermistor
A temperature-sensitive resistor (more temperature-sensitive than a normal resistor)
An NTC (Negative Temperature Constant) thermistor ________ in resistance as temperature increases
Decreases
