Thanks to their unique electrical properties, semiconductors, like an SI wafer, are fundamental materials used in electronics. They act as building blocks in elements like integrated circuits and transistors.
A transistor and a semiconductor are related concepts in electronics, but they fundamentally differ in function and structure. While semiconductors are the materials used to make devices like transistors, a transistor is an active electronic component that performs specific functions within electronic circuits.
To understand this better, let’s go over their differences.
Any substance with electrical conductivity between an insulator (like rubber) and a conductor (like metals) is called a semiconductor. Germanium (Ge) and silicon (Si) are common semiconductors.
The primary characteristic of semiconductors is their electrical conductivity, which can be altered by applying an electric field, varying temperature, or doping them with impurities. For this reason, semiconductors are the foundation for making various electronic components, including transistors.
One type of semiconductor-based electronic component is a transistor.
Transistors are used to amplify or switch electronic signals and electrical power. They have three main parts: the emitter, base, and collector. By supplying a small current or voltage to the base, the transistor functions as a switch or amplifier.
As you can see, semiconductors are materials with electrical characteristics halfway between conductors and insulators. Transistors, on the other hand, are specialized devices that can switch or amplify electronic signals and are constructed from semiconductor materials.
Both of these components play a crucial, interrelated role in modern electronics. Acting as the building blocks for many of the devices we use today. If you want to learn more about semiconductors and their uses, contact Wafer World!
