The year, make, model and engine info would be helpful but a bad ignition module or crank sensor could do that.FYI, spark originates in the coil then is sent to the distributor then to the spark plugs.
The engine may not fire when the distributor coil is broken. Replace the distributor coil to see if the problem is resolved.
If you have spark a the coil but not the distributor, then the coil wire has failed.
The spark travels from the coil to the distributor then from the distributor to the plugs. So if you have spark going into the distributor but not coming out to the plugs, I would blame the distributor cap and rotor being at fault.
I believe the part you're asking about is inside the distributor. It's the semiconductor device that causes the coil to fire.
Check the coil, coil wire, rotor, and distributor cap.
Rotor Pick-up coil
coil, distributor, distributor cap, plugs, or wires.
change the rotor. spark shorting to distributor shaft
Failed coil/plug wire.
COIL
need a new coil or coil wire if you are getting power to the coil
if you have a new coil then it is probally going to be the ignition module located on the distributor.