English for Specific Purposes

Electronic Engineering 99

WORD STUDY

3. Translate the following definitions and memorize the terms:

amplifier (n) -		an electronic device increasing the strength of the signal fed into it;

amplitude modulation (n) -		a method of transmitting information using radio waves, the relevant
			signal being superimposed onto a radio-frequency carrier wave. The
			frequency of the carrier wave remains unchanged but its amplitude is
			varied in accordance with the amplitude of the input signal;

conductor (n) -		a substance, body, or system that conducts electricity, heat, etc.;

current (n)	-		a flow of electric charge through a conductor;

diode (n) -		a semiconductor device containing one p-n junction, used in circuits for
			converting alternating current to direct current;

frequency modulation (n) -		a method of transmitting information using a radio-frequency carrier

			wave. The frequency of the carrier wave is varied in accordance with the
			amplitude and polarity of the input signal, the amplitude of the carrier
			remaining unchanged;
input (n)	-		the signal or current fed into a component or circuit;
integrate (v)	-		to make or be made into a whole, incorporate or be incorporated;
microchip (n)	-		a small piece of semiconductor material carrying many integrated
			circuits;
modulation (n)	-		the act or process of superimposing the amplitude, frequency, phase,
			etc., of a wave or signal onto another (carrier) wave or signal or onto an
			electron beam;
relay (n)	-		a combination of a receiver and transmitter designed to receive radio
			signals and retransmit them, in order to extend their range;
semiconductor (n) -		a substance having an electrical conductivity that increases with
			temperature and is intermediate between that of a metal and an
			insulator;

sequence (n) -		a successive order of two or more things: chronological sequence; an
			action or event that follows another or others;
transistor (n)	-		a semiconductor device, having three or more terminals attached to
			electrode regions, in which current flowing between two electrodes is