Instruction manual

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Low Pass Filter Decreases all signals above a certain frequency and passes frequencies below
that frequency.
Negative Feedback To allow a portion of the output signal to be brought back and cancel part of the
input.
Noise A random, persistent disturbance of a signal.
Open Loop Gain The maximum gain available without feedback.
Oscillator A device used to vary between alternate extremes (varies from high to low).
Peak The top of a wave or mountain.
Polarity The division of two opposites.
Power Electrical energy; strength, force, or might.
Pyroelectric Effect When certain metals change temperature, they produce energy.
RC Network An assembly of resistors and capacitors.
Reference Voltage Level of electronic element used for providing resistance in a circuit.
Resistor An electric element used for providing resistance in a circuit.
Response Curve The shape of an output produced by a circuit.
Solder An alloy (mixture) of tin and lead used in the melted state to join or repair metal
parts.
Transistor A three-terminal semiconductor device used for amplification, switching, and
detection.
Valve
A mechanical device that regulates the flow of gases, liquids, or loose materials by
blocking and uncovering openings.
Voltage An electromotive force.
Wavelength The distance in a periodic wave between 2 points of corresponding phases.\
For further information on infrared light and waves . . .
The Invisible World of the Infrared
By Jack R. White
New York: Dodd, Mead, © 1984
124 p.; ill.
Waves and Vibrations
By Brian Knapp
Danbury, CT: Grolier, © 1994
48 p.; ill.