What are passive components?

Passive components are electronic components which can only receive energy which they either dissipate, absorb or store in an electric or magnetic field.

Passive components are unable to amplify, oscillate or generate an electrical signal. These components do not require electrical power to operate, except for the available alternating current that it is connected to.

Passive components can be used individually or be connected together within a circuit. Passive devices are bi-directional as they can be connected either way around a circuit, unless they have a specified polarity (e.g. electrolytic capacitors).

Types of passive components 

Some common types of passive components include:

• Resistors 
• Inductors
• Capacitors 
• Transformers 
• Coils
• Diodes

Applications of passive components

Passive components can be found in numerous applications, including:

• Incandescent light bulbs
• Loud speakers
• Sensors
• Microwave and radio frequency applications 
• Antennas 
• GPS devices
• Satellites 
• Wireless modems and routers
• Public transport