circuit element, active

A circuit element that contributes qualities to a circuit function other than those contributed by a passive circuit element, e.g., rectification, switching, gain, or conversion of energy from one form to another.

NOTE 1 Examples include diodes, transistors, active integrated circuits, and light-sensing or light-emitting devices.

NOTE 2 Active physical circuit elements may also be used to act as passive physical circuit elements, e.g., to provide resistance and/or capacitance to a circuit function.

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