TM 11-6625-291-14/TO 33A1-7-23-1
GLOSSARY
The following special terms and words are used in this manual.
ALINEMENT. A procedure for adjusting a circuit to produce a desired frequency response or
impedance.
ALTERNATING CURRENT. The type of current usually supplied by utility power lines. A flow of
electricity which reverses in direction continuously.
AUDIO LEVEL. A frequency between 20 to 20,000 Hertz.
AUTOTRANSFORMER. Any transformer which is constructed from a single coil. A coil in which part
of the primary winding also serves as the secondary winding.
AXIAL LEADS. Wires which extend from the ends of a resistor or capacitor along the axis instead
of the sides.
Calibration. A procedure for comparing the reading of a measuring device with a standard, and
correcting any difference from the standard.
CAPACITOR. A device capable of storing electrical energy. Used to block the flow of direct
current while allowing alternating current to pass.
Characteristic IMPEDANCE. The value of a resistance which will provide minimum reflection of
voltage or current in a circuit or line.
DECIBEL. The standard unit for expressing relative power, voltage, or current.
DIRECT CURRENT. A current that flows in only one direction and is a constant value.
DIRECT READING METER. A measuring device which shows readings on a meter scale.
FULL SCALE READING. The maximum reading on a meter scale.
HALF SCALE READING. The center reading on a meter scale.
HERTZ. A term meaning cycle per second.
IMPEDANCE. The opposition a circuit has to the flow of alternating current.
LOAD. Any energy or power consuming device connected to a circuit supplying power or energy.
MILLIWATT. A unit of measurement of electrical power. A milliwatt is 1/1000 of a watt.
Glossary 1
