Thyristor: Definition & Working Principles

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SUMMARY

A thyristor is a semiconductor device that functions similarly to multiple heavy-duty transistors packaged together. It operates by switching large currents across its two main power terminals, controlled by a small current applied to a third terminal known as the gate. Thyristors replace electromagnetic relays and feature a unique "latching" property, allowing them to remain in the ON state until the current is interrupted by external means. In AC circuits, the natural zero-crossing of current simplifies the process of turning them OFF.

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  • Knowledge of AC circuit behavior
  • Basic concepts of electronic switching devices
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AlejandroMC
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What is a thyristor and how do they work?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
It's a variation on a transistor, (well two or more heavy duty transistors in a package).
Generally they are used to switch on/off a large current across it's two main power terminals by applying a small current to a third terminal called a gate.
(Switching OFF is a little more complicated, entailing that the main power source has dropped or has reversed.)
They more or less replace the job that used to be done by electromagnetic relays.
 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thyristor

Their most interesting property is the "latching" property. Once turned ON they stay ON until the current through them is turned OFF by other means. In an AC circuit the current reduces to zero twice per cycle so turning them OFF isn't usually a problem
 

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