Module 4 EEE
Module 4 EEE
Module 4 EEE
The primary function of BJT is to increase the strength of a weak signal, i.e.,
it acts as an amplifier. A BJT can also be used as a solid state switch in
electronic circuits.
Types of BJT
NPN Transistor
PNP Transistor
In this article, we will discuss in detail the working principle of both these
types of BJTs.
NPN Transistor
In BJT symbol, the arrow on the emitter terminal indicates the direction of
conventional current in the emitter with forward bias. For npn-transistor,
the conventional current flows out of the emitter as indicated by the outing
arrow.
PNP Transistor
Since the base is lightly doped and very thin, hence, only a small number
electrons (less than 5%) combine with the holes to constitute the base
current (). The remaining (more than 95%) electrons cross over the base
region and reach to the collector region to constitute the collector current ().
In this manner, the entire emitter current flows in the collector circuit.
IE=IB+ICIE=IB+IC
Working of PNP Transistor
For the pnp-transistor, the forward bias of emitter-base junction causes the
flow of holes in the p-type emitter region towards the n-type base and
constitutes the emitter current (IE). As these holes cross into the n-type base
region, they tend to combine with the electrons. Since the base is lightly
doped and very thin, hence only a small number of holes (less than 5%)
combine with the electrons. The remaining (more than 95%) cross the base
and reach into the collector region to constitute the collector current (IC).
In this manner, the entire emitter current flows into the collector circuit. It
may be noted that the current conduction inside the pnp-transistor is due to
the movement of holes. However, in the external connecting wires, the
current is still due to the flow of electrons.
Again, the emitter current is the sum of collector current and base current.
IE=IB+ICIE=IB+IC
BJT Biasing
When both the junctions are forward biased then the transistor is said to be
operating in the saturation region. The transistor operated in saturation
region acts like a closed switch and the collector current becomes maximum.
When both the junctions are reverse biased, the transistor is said to be
operating in the cut off region. The BJT operated in cut off region acts as an
open switch and a very small collector current (in µA) flows from emitter to
collector. This current is called reverse leakage current and is due to
minority charge carriers (electrons in p-region and holes in n-region).