Introduction
The 2N3904 is a very popular and versatile general-purpose NPN transistor known for its wide use in low-power amplification and switching applications. Due to its reliability and low cost, it’s a staple component for electronic students, hobbyists, and commercial products alike. The transistor is capable of handling a continuous collector current (IC) of up to 200mA and has a collector-emitter voltage (VCEO) of 40V, making it well-suited for a variety of small-scale electronic projects.
One of the key features of the 2N3904 is its high DC current gain (hFE), which typically ranges from 100 to 300. This high gain allows a very small base current to control a much larger collector current, making it highly efficient for both amplification and switching purposes. It is commonly used as a signal amplifier in both audio and RF circuits and as a small-signal switch to control low-power loads like LEDs or small relays. Its total power dissipation is 625 milliwatts, which is sufficient for most low-power applications.
2N3904 NPN Transistor
The transistor is housed in a standard TO-92 package, a compact and easy-to-use form factor for through-hole mounting. The widespread availability and dependable performance of the 2N3904 have made it a go-to component for prototyping and educational purposes. Its balance of power handling, current gain, and cost-effectiveness solidifies its position as a fundamental building block in the electronics world.
2N3904 Pinout
2N3904 NPN Transistor Key Features
The 2N3904 is a very popular and versatile general-purpose NPN transistor used extensively for low-power switching and amplification tasks. It’s a staple in electronics for hobbyists and professionals alike due to its reliability and low cost.
- Low Current Capability: It has a continuous collector current (IC) of up to 200mA. This makes it suitable for controlling low-power devices like LEDs, small relays, and other transistors.
- Low Voltage Rating: The collector-emitter voltage (VCEO) is 40V, which is ideal for a wide range of low-voltage circuits.
- High DC Current Gain (hFE): The transistor offers a high gain, typically ranging from 100 to 300. This allows a very small base current to control a significantly larger collector current.
- Low Power Dissipation: It has a total power dissipation (PD) of 625mW. This is sufficient for most low-power signal amplification and switching applications.
- High Transition Frequency: With a transition frequency (fT) of 300MHz, it can be used for high-frequency applications, including audio and low-power RF circuits.
- Compact Package: The 2N3904 is commonly available in the TO-92 package, which is a compact, plastic through-hole package that is easy to work with on breadboards and printed circuit boards.
2N3904 Transistor Specifications/Characteristics
| Characterstics | Rating (Max) |
|---|---|
| Collector Current(IC): | 200mA |
| Collector Current(IC): | 200mA |
| Collector Current(IC): | 200mA |
| Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE): | 40V |
| Collector-Base Voltage (VCB): | 60V |
| Emitter-Base Voltage (VEBO): | 6V |
| Collector Dissipation (Pc): | 625 mW |
| Transition Frequency (fT): | 300 MHz |
| DC Current Gain (hFE): | 40 – 300 |
| Storage & Operating temperature Should Be: | -55 to +150 °C |
| Noise Figure (NF) | 4dB |
More Circuit Layouts
Key Applications of 2N3904 NPN Transistor
- Switching loads under 200mA
- Sensor Circuits
- Audio Preamplifiers
- Audio Amplifier Stages
- Darlington Pairs
PNP Complimentary Transistor
PNP Complementary of 2N3904 Transistor is 2N3906.
Equivalent Transistors of 2N3904
2N2222, S8050, 2N4401, BC537, SS9013
(Pin configuration of some transistors may different from 2N3904)
Datasheet of 2N3904 NPN Transistor
Click the following Button below to download the datasheet of 2N3904 NPN Transistor :
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