EXTRACT B.

Date: 2015-10-07; view: 367.

Semiconductors are soilids whose resistivity lies between those of electrical conductors and insulators. Semiconductors are used in computers, in radio and TV receivers, and in other electronic products.

Semiconductor devices perform many control functions. They may be used as rectifiers, amplifiers, detectors, oscillators and switching elements. Some characteristics, which make the semiconductors such an attractive member of the electronics family are the following:

1. Semiconductors are small and light in weight.

2. Semiconductors are solids. There is therefore little chance that elements will vibrate. Element vibration in vacuum tubes was the cause of microphonics.

3. Semiconductors require little power and radiate less heat than tubes. They do not need warm up time and operate as soon as power is applied.

4. Semiconductors do not undergo the chemical deterioration which occurs in tube cathodes. The deterioration of tube cathodes eventually results in unacceptable tube performance.

Silicon is the material of which most semiconductor devices are presently constructed.

21. In Russian write a content-based summary of the text you have translated.

22. Translate into English the summary made in ex.20 of the text you haven't read.

23. Make a reverse written translation (from Russian into English) of the Extract you have translated.

24. Serve as simultaneous interpreter. Make an oral reverse interpretation of the text.

25. Find more information about semiconductors and tell your group mates.