DISCRETE SEMICONDUCTORS

Discrete semiconductors are individual electronic components that are used for specific functions in electronic circuits. Unlike integrated circuits, which combine multiple components into a single package, discrete semiconductors are stand-alone devices that can be used in a variety of different circuit configurations.

Types of discrete semiconductors include:

1. Rectifiers: These are semiconductor devices that convert AC voltage to DC voltage, and are commonly used in power supplies and battery chargers.
2. Varistors: These are voltage-dependent resistors that protect electronic circuits from voltage surges and transients.
3. Optocouplers: These are semiconductor devices that combine an LED and a photodetector to provide electrical isolation between two circuits.
4. Voltage regulators: These are semiconductor devices that maintain a constant output voltage regardless of changes in input voltage or load current, and are commonly used in power supplies and voltage regulators.
5. Diodes: These are semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in only one direction, and are commonly used for rectification, voltage regulation, and switching applications.
   • Schottky diodes: These are semiconductor diodes with a low forward voltage drop, and are commonly used in high-frequency circuits and power supplies.
   • Zener diodes: These are semiconductor diodes that operate in the reverse breakdown region, and are commonly used for voltage regulation and protection.
6. Transistors: These are semiconductor devices that can amplify or switch electronic signals, and are commonly used in amplifiers, oscillators, and power switching circuits.
   • RF transistors: These are high-frequency transistors that are commonly used in RF amplifiers, oscillators, and mixers. 
7. Thyristors: These are semiconductor devices that can control high-current, high-voltage signals, and are commonly used in power regulation and control circuits.
8. MOSFETs: These are metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors that are commonly used as electronic switches in power electronics and inverter circuits.
   • Power MOSFETs: These are MOSFETs with a higher voltage and current rating, and are commonly used in power conversion and motor control applications.  

Applications of discrete semiconductors include:

• Power supplies: Discrete semiconductors are commonly used in power supplies for regulating voltage and current.
• Lighting: Discrete semiconductors are used in a variety of lighting applications, including LED drivers and power control circuits.
• Automotive electronics: Discrete semiconductors are used in a variety of automotive applications, including engine control, lighting, and power management.
• Consumer electronics: Discrete semiconductors are used in a wide range of consumer electronics, including smartphones, computers, and home appliances.
• Industrial equipment: Discrete semiconductors are used in a variety of industrial equipment, including motor control, power conversion, and automation systems.
• Renewable energy systems: Discrete semiconductors are used in renewable energy systems, such as solar and wind power, for power conversion and control.

Popular brands that manufacture discrete semiconductors include:

• STMicroelectronics: STMicroelectronics is a leading supplier of discrete semiconductors and offers a wide range of products including diodes, transistors, MOSFETs, and more. They are known for their high-performance, high-reliability products and are popular in a variety of industries.
• Infineon Technologies: Infineon Technologies is a global leader in the semiconductor industry and offers a wide range of discrete semiconductors including diodes, thyristors, and power MOSFETs. They are known for their high-quality, high-reliability products and are popular in automotive, industrial, and renewable energy applications.
• onsemi: onsemi is a leading supplier of discrete semiconductors including diodes, transistors, and MOSFETs. They are known for their innovative products and high-quality manufacturing processes, and are popular in a variety of industries including automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics.
• Nexperia: Nexperia is a global leader in the semiconductor industry and offers a wide range of discrete semiconductors including diodes, bipolar transistors, and MOSFETs. They are known for their high-quality products and innovative solutions, and are popular in automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics applications.
• NXP Semiconductors: NXP Semiconductors is a leading supplier of discrete semiconductors including diodes, MOSFETs, and RF transistors. They are known for their high-performance, high-reliability products and are popular in automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics applications.
• Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation: Toshiba is a global leader in the semiconductor industry and offers a wide range of discrete semiconductors including diodes, MOSFETs, and rectifiers. They are known for their high-quality products and innovative solutions, and are popular in a variety of industries including automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics.