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Anatomy of a microwave oven

A modern microwave oven consists of the followings components,

1. Transformer, which transfers energy.
2. Waveguide, a pipe which processes electromagnetic waves.
3. Magnetron, generates stables microwaves.
   
4. Electronic controller, a circuit which includes a processor and memory.
   
5. Internal chamber, with a lining to insulate and keep microwaves from escaping.
6. Oven door, made from glass or perspex plastic.
7. Turntable, to ensure food and microwaves are spread as evenly as possible.

The above components are found within a basic entry level microwave.

A convection microwave oven will contain additional components. The difference between a convection and a standard microwave oven is as follows.

A convection microwave aims to replicate the process of a normal oven, which can brown and crisp food. The caramelisation or crisping / browning of food has been scientifically researched and named the Maillard reaction.

A standard microwave oven cannot created a Maillard reaction, instead the food produced is somewhat similar to the results of cooking food by boiling.

To archive the Mailard reaction, one of two components needs to be installed. A basic heating elelment and a fan, which is cheaper and less sophisticated. The downside to the heating element and fan is the smoke produced.

The other component is a halogen bulb with quartz power. The bulb, alongside the standard radiation of a microwave oven, combined, do a good job of replicating an oven.

The bulb works by producing infrared radiation, which will crisp and brown the surface of the food, while the standard radiation of the microwave cooks the food through.