Unless your daily driver is a classic Mini, or something of a similar ilk with drum brakes in all four corners, you'll have calipers providing the stopping force each time you hit the brake pedal.
Engineering Explained on MSN

How disc brakes work - fixed vs floating

How do disc brakes work? An explanation of how disc brakes work. A look at floating disc brakes and fixed disc brakes. Also ...
Brake calipers are the unsung heroes of your car’s stopping power, yet they’re often overlooked until problems arise. Knowing how they work, spotting early warning signs, and using the right tools can ...
A brake caliper is a vital part of the vehicle's braking system. It is pivotal in decelerating the wheels and bringing the vehicle to a halt. Let us understand their structure and function in detail.
When the brakes are applied, circuits send compressed air from the storage tanks to front and rear service chambers that push the brake shoes into the brake drums, thus slowing down the vehicle. Semis ...