History of Electronics

Electronics is the science of how to control electric energy, energy in which the electrons have a fundamental role. Electronics deals with electrical circuits that involve active electrical components such as vacuum tubes, transistors, diodes, integrated circuits, optoelectronics, and sensors, associated passive electrical components, and interconnection technologies.

Electronic devices often are used to amplify or modify electromagnetic waves, and to switch electrical energy on or off.

The type of component used to provide amplification or switching divides the history of electronic devices into three eras:

Each of these eras has had a profound effect on the development of electronics and the devices that have been created.

Diagram showing transition from vacuum tubes to integrated circuits