TechnologySeptember 2, 2026

varactor

vuh-RAK-ter

Definition

A type of semiconductor diode whose internal capacitance varies based on the amount of voltage applied to it.

Etymology

The word is a portmanteau derived from 'variable' and 'reactor' (or 'capacitor'), first appearing in the mid-20th century to describe this specific electronic component.

In the news

The article mentions varactor diodes as part of a new set of nonlinear models, which are critical for RF and microwave design engineers to simulate circuit performance accurately.

RF library update adds 25 nonlinear diode models

Read the full article ↗

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