The word "flyback" is typically pronounced /ˈflaɪbæk/. The first syllable "fly" is spelled with the letter combination "fl", which represents the phoneme /fl/. The second syllable "back" is spelled with the letter combination "back", which represents the phoneme /bæk/. The word "flyback" commonly refers to the process of the image on a television screen being scanned from bottom to top and then quickly returning to the bottom to start the process again.
Flyback is a technical term with multiple meanings depending on the context. In electronics, it commonly refers to a type of power supply circuitry that generates high voltage pulses. Specifically, it involves the conversion of low voltage and high current to high voltage and low current through the use of a transformer, energy storage components, and a switch-mode operation. The flyback power supply is widely utilized in various electronic devices, such as televisions, computer monitors, and cathode-ray tubes (CRTs) to deliver the necessary high voltage to activate display elements or electron guns.
In the field of television technology, flyback also pertains to the retrace of an electron beam from one point on the screen to another. This occurs during the return of an electron beam to the top left corner of the screen, after it has scanned and illuminated each line of the display. The flyback period is the time it takes for the beam to travel back to the starting point and is essential for creating a stable image during horizontal scanning. Failure of the flyback period can result in distorted or rolling display.
Additionally, flyback can refer to a type of converter that efficiently manages the transfer of energy between sources and devices or components. It functions by storing and releasing energy to meet the power requirements of different circuit elements, minimizing energy loss while improving overall system efficiency. Flyback converters are frequently employed in power electronics applications, such as in renewable energy systems, battery chargers, and inductive load drivers.
The word "flyback" is derived from the combination of two words: "fly" and "back".
The word "fly" dates back to Old English and is derived from the Germanic word "flēogan", which means "to fly or soar". This word has remained relatively unchanged in various Germanic languages.
The word "back" also originated from Old English and is related to the German word "zurück", meaning "to turn back or return". It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "bakam" and shares its roots with the Old Norse word "bak" and Old High German word "bah".
When combined, the word "flyback" describes a technical concept associated with the operation of certain electronic devices, particularly cathode ray tube (CRT) televisions and monitors.