discrete component

[/dɪˈskriːt ˈkɒmpənənt/]
nounpl: discrete components
componente discreto
1. An individual electronic or mechanical part that performs a specific function and is not integrated with other components on a single chip or circuit board
The vintage radio uses discrete components such as individual transistors and resistors rather than integrated circuits.
O rádio vintage usa componentes discretos como transistores individuais e resistores em vez de circuitos integrados.
2. A separate, distinct element in a system that can be identified and analyzed independently
Each discrete component of the engine must be inspected for wear and damage.
Cada componente discreto do motor deve ser inspecionado quanto a desgaste e danos.
This term is predominantly used in technical and engineering contexts in both Brazil and the United States. It gained particular importance during the early period of electronics development when integrated circuits did not exist, and remains significant in vintage electronics repair, specialized audio equipment manufacturing, and certain high-reliability applications. The term reflects the distinction between older, modular electronic design and modern integrated circuit approaches.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
individual componentseparate componentdistinct elementstandalone part
Antonyms / Antônimos
integrated circuitmonolithic componentchipcombined component

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
componente discreto
Standard technical term used in electronics and engineering
Portugal
componente discreto
Same as Brazilian Portuguese, commonly used in technical contexts
USA Technical English
discrete component
Widely used in electronics engineering and manufacturing industries

Related Words

transistorresistorcapacitorcircuit boardintegrated circuitsemiconductorelectronic component

Related Idioms & Phrases

break down into discrete components
discrete component level analysis
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