A thyristor is a four-layer semiconductor device, consisting of alternating P type and N type materials (PNPN). A thyristor usually has three electrodes: an anode, a cathode, and a gate (control electrode).
The most common type of thyristor is the silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR). When the cathode is negatively charged relative to the anode, no current flows until a pulse is applied to the gate. Then the SCR begins to conduct, and continues to conduct until the voltage between the cathode and anode is reversed or reduced below a certain threshold value. Using this type of thyristor, large amounts of power can be switched or controlled using a small triggering current or voltage.
Thyristors are used in motor speed controls, light dimmers, pressure-control systems, and liquid-level regulators.
This was last updated in September 2005
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