A Thyristor is any semiconductor switch with a bi-stable action depending on p-n-p-n egenerative feedback. Thyristors are normally two- or three-terminal devices for either unidirectional or bi-directional circuit configurations.Thyristors can have many forms, but they have certain commonalities. All Thyristors are solid state switches that are normally open circuits (very high impedance), capable of withstanding rated blocking/off-state voltage until triggered to on state. When triggered to on state, Thyristors become a low-impedance current path until principle current either stops or drops below a minimum holding level. After a Thyristor is triggered to on-state condition, the trigger current can be removed without turning off the device.
Thyristors can be used to protect a wide range of electronic components and are commonly used in home appliances, electrical tools, and outdoor equipment.They are also often used in variable-speed electric motors, power supplies for electrochemical processes, lighting and heating control, and controllers for electric utility power systems.
The Littelfuse line of Thyristors include Sensitive Triacs, Triacs, Quadrac® Devices, Alternistor Triacs, Sensitive SCRs, SCRs, Rectifiers, DIACs and SIDACs.