ABSTRACT

As electric current flows through electronic components, it generates heat. This heat generation is proportional to both the current level as well as the electrical resistance of the component.

Once heat is generated in a component and does not escape, the component temperature begins to rise, and it will continue to rise until the component melts and the current is disconnected. To prevent this temperature rise, heat must be removed to a region of lesser temperature. There are three mechanisms for removing heat; namely, conduction, convection, and radiation.