transistors

tran·sis·tor   (trān-zĭs'tər, -sĭs'-)    n.   A small electronic device containing a semiconductor and having at least three electrical contacts, used in a circuit as an amplifier, detector, or switch. A transistor radio. [trans(fer) + (res)istor.]

Main Entry: tran·sis·tor
Pronunciation: tranz-'is-t&r, tran(t)s-
Function: noun
: a solid-state electronic device that is used to controlthe flow of electricity in electronic equipment and consists of a small block of a semiconductor (as germanium) with at least three electrodes

transistor   (trān-zĭs'tər)  Pronunciation Key  An electronic device that controls the flow of an electric current, most often used as an amplifier or switch. Transistors usually consist of three layers of semiconductor material, in which the flow of electric current across the outer layer is regulated by the voltage or current applied at the middle layer. Having replaced the vacuum tube, transistors are the basis of much modern electronic technology, including the microprocessor. See also logic circuit, logic gate.