Transistors

Transistor – most versatile component of modern electronic devices

The transistor is a key component in all modern electronic devices. This is one of the most important electronic inventions of the 20th century. Its importance in today's society is great because the device is mass-produced using a highly automated and relatively low-cost process. Even though the vast majority of transistors today are manufactured on integrated circuits, there are still many types of separate transistors on the market. You can use these devices for your DIY projects. The transistor is a switch element that safely allows you to turn on the flow of more current.

How do transistors work and what are their types? Differences

A transistor is a semiconductor device that usually consists of at least three leads for connection to an external circuit. A voltage or current applied to one pair of the transistor terminals controls the current through the other pair of terminals. The controlled (output) power can be higher than the driving (input) power and therefore the transistor can amplify the signal. Most transistors are made of very pure silicon or germanium, but other semiconductor materials can also be used. There are basic types of these devices: bipolar transistors (BJTs) and field effect transistors (FETs), which are also known as unipolar transistors.

The first type of device can only contain one type of load carrier.

In turn, in a unipolar transistor (FET), two types of electric charge carriers can coexist simultaneously. These elements differ in structure, and therefore also in the way they work. Bipolar transistors are so named because they work on both major and minority carriers. Such a transistor is a combination of two diodes. Unipolar transistors work differently. A field effect transistor (FET) uses electrons or holes to conduct. The current is controlled by an electric field. There are several sub-types, including thin-film transistors.

Transistors in Arduino electronic circuits

Arduino printed circuit boards are fragile elements that can be easily programmed, but when contracting a larger and more advanced project there might be a problem with current level. In such situations, it is necessary to equip yourself with a device that will allow you to control the flow of high current.

A great example of using a transistor would be to create a robot with a motor that must consume a lot of current. Such a robot motor should be connected through a transistor so that other, more delicate elements of the structure draw a lower power current.

The use of transistors is really very wide. Check out all the products available in the Botland Store and choose the best transistor for your project now. If you need any help, would like to ask for advice on what product to choose, don't hesitate. Feel free to contact us anytime - we will be glad to help!