Academy · Beginner

What is a Transistor?

Explains the basic operation of a BJT transistor, the NPN/PNP distinction and how it differs from a MOSFET.

Academy home Transistor Finder BC548 example

Core idea

A transistor is a fundamental semiconductor device used to control one current with a smaller control signal.

BJT

BJT transistors have Base, Collector and Emitter terminals.

Difference from a MOSFET

A MOSFET is controlled by gate voltage, while a BJT is controlled by base current.

Next step

Use this lesson together with Claddify component pages and finder tools. Verify the datasheet and connection orientation before building a real circuit.

Transistor Finder BC548 example

Learning Progress

This page BJT Transistor Fundamentals is step 1 of 6 in the path.

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