Semiconductor Applications
o Two of the most important devices developed using the properties of semiconductors are diodes and transistors. Diodes are electrical components that conduct current in one direction and block current in the opposite direction. Common diodes include light-emitting diodes (LEDs), laser diodes and photodiodes. Transitors act as amplifiers and switches of electronic signals. That is, transistors can both change the direction or amplify an electrical signal. Due to their small size and extremely low production cost, the transistor has allowed for the production of smaller, and less expensive computers, televisions, calculators and hundreds of other types of electronics.