point-contact diode
- noun
- /pɔɪntˈkɒntækt daɪoʊd/
- Archaic
:
diodo de contacto puntual
- Unlike modern diodes, a point-contact diode has a metal wire pressed onto a semiconductor crystal.
Examples
-
The point-contact diode was one of the earliest types used in radio receivers.
-
Repairing old equipment sometimes requires sourcing a replacement point-contact diode.
-
The point-contact diode is essential in many electronic devices.
-
Many engineers prefer using point-contact diodes for their projects.
-
The point-contact diode was one of the earliest types used in radio receivers.
-
Repairing old equipment sometimes requires sourcing a replacement point-contact diode.
-
Unlike modern diodes, a point-contact diode has a metal wire pressed onto a semiconductor crystal.
Synonyms
8
5.2
A small electronic part that lets electric current flow only one way
A small electronic part that lets electric current flow one way to make direct current
A small electronic part used in power supplies and lights that lets electricity flow only one way
Surface Forms
Morphology
point-contact + diode
The phrase is compositionally descriptive: 'point-contact' denotes a contact at a single point and 'diode' denotes a device that permits current one way, so the combined phrase straightforwardly means a diode that uses a point contact. Although the term is technical, this logic follows normal noun-compound formation and would be inferable by a B1 learner who knows the constituent words.
Etymology
Point-contact diode gets its name from a tiny metal point that touches a special crystal to make a single contact. That small touch lets electricity go 'one way', so the name shows both the tiny shape and the device's job.