After a brief history of electronics starting with valves and vacuum tubes, this program explains the operation of semiconductors, diodes, and transistors. It covers the electronic band structure of conductors, insulators, and semiconductors; doping to boost the conductivity of n- and p-type semiconductors; the functioning of LEDs and photodiodes used in remote control devices and DVD readers; how NPN transistors work; and the action of MOSFETs, core components in the integrated circuits that control computers, phones, and all other electronic devices.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on January 20, 2012. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Development of Electronics (3:08) -- Semiconductors (4:07) -- N-Type and P-Type Semiconductors (2:46) -- Diodes (7:30) -- Transistors (3:37) -- Film Summary (0:58) -- Credits: Semiconductors, Diodes, and Transistors (0:34).