How Do You Spell COMMON CATHODE?

Pronunciation: [kˈɒmən kˈaθə͡ʊd] (IPA)

The term "common cathode" is commonly used in electronics to describe the configuration of a display or LED. The spelling of this word follows the rules of English pronunciation, with the "c" being pronounced as "k" and the "h" being silent. The first syllable is stressed, and the "a" is pronounced as a short "o" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription of "common cathode" is /ˈkɑmən kæθoʊd/. This spelling is important to ensure clear communication and understanding between engineers and electronics professionals.

COMMON CATHODE Meaning and Definition

1. Common cathode refers to a specific configuration or design in which a semiconductor electronic device or component has a common terminal for the anodes of multiple diodes or LEDs, while the cathodes of these diodes or LEDs are individually connected to separate terminals. In other words, it is a type of connection arrangement commonly found in multi-digit seven-segment displays or arrays of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) where the cathodes are joined together to form the common connection.

   In this configuration, the common cathode terminal is usually connected to the negative terminal of the power supply, which effectively sets the common cathode at a low or ground potential. When a positive voltage is applied to one of the individual anode terminals, the corresponding LED or diode connected to that terminal will illuminate, as current is able to flow through it. By selectively applying voltages to specific anode terminals, digits or segments can be turned on or off, allowing for the display of different numbers, letters, or symbols.

   Common cathode displays have a shared negative or ground connection, which simplifies the wiring and control circuitry, as only one connection needs to be controlled to activate multiple elements. This configuration is commonly used in various electronic applications, including digital clocks, calculators, automotive instrument panels, and other devices where numerical or alphanumeric displays are required.

Etymology of COMMON CATHODE

The term "common cathode" comes from the field of electronics and is composed of two parts: "common" and "cathode".

1. Common: In electronic circuits, the word "common" is used to refer to a shared or common connection point. It implies that multiple components or elements are connected to the same point in a circuit.

2. Cathode: A cathode is an electrode through which electric current flows out of a polarized electrical device. It is the opposite of an anode, through which electric current flows into a device. In electronic components like LEDs or vacuum tubes, the cathode serves as the negative or ground terminal.

So, when we speak of a "common cathode", it refers to a configuration where multiple components, such as LEDs or display segments, share a cathode connection.