active device

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "active device" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to electronics, technology, or systems where a device performs a function or action, as opposed to passive devices that do not actively control or process signals. Example: "The circuit requires an active device, such as a transistor, to amplify the signal."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That makes for an active device, one that looks at what current is flowing and makes decisions in real time," Mr. van der Zel said.

The New York Times

Ming Liu and colleagues at the NSF Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center, Berkeley, Calif., demonstrated a high-speed broadband electro-optical modulator with high efficiency and an active device area of only 25 μm25

Encyclopedia Britannica

This technique includes the active device selection, characterization and simulation.

Cryogenics

The active device area (9 mm2) was defined by shadow mask.

Nano-Micro Letters

Detailed designer considerations such as device offerings, passive device metrics, and active device characterization are presented.

Microwave Wireless Communications From Transistor to System Level

Hydrostatic energy is used to power an active device for sediment sampling and geophysical site characterization.

Marine Geology

Further, the influence of non-conducting islands in the active device area was investigated.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

The active device was patterned by electron beam (e-beam) direct writing and transferred by reactive ion etching (RIE).

Nanoscale Research Letters

Traditionally, a 3-D integrated circuit (3-D-IC) has used more than one active device layer.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Black smoke on the active device region is obviously O2 gas; however, those are not images during device burning.

Nanoscale Research Letters

The active device area, which was defined by a metal mask for Al deposition, was 1.44 mm2.

Nanoscale Research Letters

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a device, be precise about its activity. Specify what makes it an "active device" versus a passive one, highlighting its ability to process or control signals.

Common error

Don't simply label something as an "active device" without explaining its function. Always clarify what the device actively does, and the context in which it operates.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "active device" functions primarily as a noun phrase. Ludwig AI suggests it's used to describe a component or system that actively participates in a process, unlike passive elements. It is often seen labeling specific areas or components within larger systems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

87%

News & Media

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "active device" is a common and correct term, primarily used in scientific and technical contexts to describe a device that requires external power to function, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's crucial to specify what makes the device active in order to ensure clarity. The phrase's usage is prevalent in the sciences, particularly in electronics and engineering, where distinguishing active from passive components is vital. While grammatically straightforward, effective use involves clearly defining the device's active role. Alternatives such as "powered device" or "functioning device" may be considered depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

powered device

This alternative focuses on the power source being 'active' rather than the device itself.

functioning device

This alternative emphasizes the operational state of the device.

operational apparatus

Changing 'device' to 'apparatus' offers a more formal tone and 'operational' emphasizes the device's ability to work.

dynamic mechanism

Using "dynamic" in place of "active" highlights its responsive or changing nature, while "mechanism" can substitute "device."

live instrument

This alternative stresses the immediacy and real-time operation of the device.

energized system

The term 'energized' suggests that the system is powered and ready for action.

actuating element

This is a more technical term focusing on the element's role in initiating action.

interactive component

This phrase highlights the device's ability to respond to user input or environmental changes.

responsive unit

This alternative focuses on the device's ability to react to stimuli.

automated tool

This option emphasizes the self-operating capability of the device.

FAQs

How is an "active device" different from a passive device?

An "active device" is capable of controlling or amplifying signals with an external energy source, while a passive device doesn't require external power and can only modify signals without adding power. Active devices include transistors and amplifiers, while passive devices include resistors and capacitors.

What are some examples of "active devices" in electronics?

Examples of "active devices" include transistors, diodes, and integrated circuits. These components actively control the flow of electricity to perform functions like amplification, switching, or signal processing.

Where can I learn more about the specific functions of an "active device"?

Detailed information can be found in electronics textbooks, technical manuals, or online resources specializing in circuit design and component specifications. You can also explore documentation provided by manufacturers of specific devices.

How can I identify if a component in a circuit is an "active device"?

Look for components that require a power supply to operate or that amplify or switch signals. If a device needs external power to perform its function, it's likely an "active device".