Electronic devices that we use every day rely on a variety of intricate components that each serve an important function. While chips and circuit boards might get most of the attention, there are several other critical parts that enable our electronic gadgets to operate. Today, we’ll explore some of the key components that make up the inner workings of common electronic equipment. From displays to sensors to speciality coatings, these elements work together to allow the magical technologies we’ve come to depend on.
1. ITO Glass
One component that has become ubiquitous in consumer electronics is ITO glass. ITO stands for indium tin oxide, a transparent conductive coating that can be applied to glass surfaces. ITO glass from companies like Itotek Ltd in the UK is found in numerous types of electronic displays and touchscreens.
By depositing a thin layer of ITO on glass, manufacturers can produce a see-through surface that is also electrically conductive. This allows electrical currents to flow across the glass, which enables touch control capabilities. ITO on glass can register when and where a finger touches the screen. From smartphones to TVs to GPS units, ITO glass has become an essential component of most modern screen-based electronic devices.
2. Sensors
Another vital ingredient in many types of electronic equipment is sensors. Sensors allow devices to detect and measure real-world conditions like motion, orientation, temperature, humidity, and more. Tiny sensor components take critical readings that are then translated into electrical signals.
Different types of sensors serve different purposes. Accelerometers measure acceleration forces and tilt, enabling screen rotation and gesture control in phones. Gyroscopic sensors detect rotation for stability and orientation capabilities.
3. Specialty Coatings
Special coatings also play a role in many electronics. Protective and functional coatings can be applied to component surfaces to add abilities like waterproofing, scratch resistance, antiglare, UV blocking, and more.
For example, a water-repellent nano-coating makes printed circuit boards more resistant to moisture and corrosion. Antiglare coatings reduce screen reflectivity. Conductive polymers add touch sensitivity to plastic casings.
4. Batteries
Powering our electronics requires advanced battery technologies. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide the lightweight, high-capacity energy storage needed for everything from laptops to electric vehicles. Sophisticated battery management systems monitor performance and prevent overcharging. Micro-batteries can be printed directly onto circuit boards, providing on-board power. Emerging battery technologies like solid state promise even safer, faster-charging capabilities.
5. Semiconductors
The transistors and microchips that make up integrated semiconductors are essential processing components. Semiconductors etched onto tiny wafers of silicon contain billions of microscopic transistors. This enables powerful computing and functionality within remarkably small electronics. Engineers continue to innovate with faster, smaller, and more energy-efficient processor designs.
The complex integrated circuits inside semiconductor chips make things like touch screens, digital cameras, and mobile internet connections possible. Next-generation semiconductors will further advance electronics and connectivity.
While wires, chips, and batteries are essential, components like ITO glass, sensors and speciality coatings provide the crucial extras that make our electronics useful. By understanding the inner workings, we can better appreciate the technology we use every day.
