The symbol of a transistor varies depending on the type of transistor, but a key distinguishing feature is the arrow on the emitter terminal, indicating the direction of current flow. The symbols also show the base, collector and emitter terminals.
Transistor Symbols: A Visual Guide
Transistors are fundamental components in electronic circuits, and their symbols are essential for understanding circuit diagrams. Different types of transistors have different symbols.
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NPN Transistor: The symbol for an NPN transistor shows an arrow pointing away from the base and towards the emitter. According to the reference, in an NPN transistor, the arrow points from the base to the emitter, indicating that current flows from the collector, through the base, and into the emitter.
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PNP Transistor: The symbol for a PNP transistor shows an arrow pointing towards the base and away from the emitter.
While the specific appearance can vary slightly depending on the source, they all convey the same fundamental information:
| Transistor Type | Symbol Description |
|---|---|
| NPN | Arrow on emitter pointing away from the base. |
| PNP | Arrow on emitter pointing towards the base. |
Understanding these symbols is crucial for reading and interpreting electronic schematics and understanding how transistors function within a circuit.
