All complex electronic circuits in use today, such OLED TVs, mobile phones, robotic arms, Electric Vehicles, etc, have basic electronic components such as resistors, capacitors, diodes and transistors. This unit introduces the fundamental principles of components, that form the basis of analogue circuits. It shows the difference between passive and active components used in control systems.

The unit starts by exploring resistors, focusing on their role as current limiting devices, voltage divider circuits and biassing diode and transistor circuits. It will then delve into how capacitors store and release electrical energy, and how they are used in filter and DC blocking circuits. The principles of magnetism and electro-magnetism are then explained, showing students how these principles are applied in magnetic actuators such as transformers, DC motors, stepper motors, relays and solenoids. The unit then introduces the atomic structure of diodes, delving into the principle of operation of diodes, which is essential, to later understand rectification circuits and how diodes are used as protection devices. Finally, the learners will investigate the principle of operation of both Bi-polar and Field-Effect transistors, to understand their operation as switching devices and small signal amplifiers.

Throughout the unit, learners will strengthen their theoretical knowledge through practical circuit experimentation, develop the ability to interpret circuit behaviour, thus being able to troubleshoot circuits and design simple analogue systems.