Thyristors - SCRsA thyristor, also known as a silicon-controlled rectifier (SCR), is a type of semiconductor device that is commonly used for switching and controlling electrical power. Thyristors are typically used in applications where high voltage and current are involved, such as in power supplies, inverters, and motor control systems. They are able to control the flow of electrical current in a circuit by switching on and off rapidly, allowing them to function as both switches and rectifiers. Thyristors are able to handle large amounts of power and are relatively simple to control, making them a popular choice in many power electronic applications.