2N5088 Pinout, Equivalent, Application, Datasheet

The 2N5088 pinout follows the Emitter–Base–Collector (E–B–C) order when viewed from the flat face of its TO-92 package. The 2N5088 NPN transistor is a low-noise, high-gain small-signal device widely used in audio amplifiers, instrumentation, and sensor signal preamplifiers.
It delivers excellent linearity and low distortion, making it ideal for microphone preamps, guitar pedals, and hi-fi audio designs where sound clarity and sensitivity are important.

Because of its high DC gain range (300–900) and low noise characteristics, the 2N5088 is one of the best-performing NPN transistors for precise signal amplification and low-level switching.

Introduction to 2N5088 NPN Transistor

The 2N5088 transistor is a silicon planar NPN bipolar junction transistor (BJT) optimized for small-signal and low-noise applications.
Its high gain and low saturation voltage make it suitable for audio frequency amplifiers, voltage amplifiers, and signal processing stages in sensitive circuits.

Operating at collector-emitter voltages up to 30 V and collector currents up to 100 mA, the 2N5088 ensures stable performance under various load conditions.
It’s commonly used in DIY audio projects, test instruments, and sensor input stages where signal accuracy and gain consistency are essential.

2N5088 NPN Transistor

Pinout of 2N5088

Understanding the 2N5088 Pinout Configuration

The 2N5088 pin configuration is easy to identify and compatible with many other TO-92 NPN transistors.
When the flat side faces you, the pin order is Emitter – Base – Collector from left to right.

Pin Configuration of 2N5088 Pinout

This configuration allows easy circuit integration and makes the transistor simple to replace or prototype with.

Key Features of 2N5088 Transistor

• High-gain, low-noise transistor for audio and instrumentation circuits
• Excellent signal amplification with low distortion
• Compact TO-92 package for through-hole PCB designs
• Stable gain characteristics over temperature range
• Fast switching response for analog and low-frequency digital circuits
• Ideal for preamp, driver, and feedback amplifier stages

2N5088 Transistor Datasheet and Specifications

• Collector–Emitter Voltage (Vce): 30 V
• Collector–Base Voltage (Vcb): 35 V
• Emitter–Base Voltage (Veb): 5 V
• Collector Current (Ic): 100 mA
• Power Dissipation (Pc): 625 mW
• DC Current Gain (hFE): 300 – 900
• Transition Frequency (fT): 100 MHz (typical)
• Package Type: TO-92
• Polarity: NPN
• Pin Configuration: Emitter–Base–Collector (E–B–C)

Working Principle of 2N5088 NPN Transistor

The 2N5088 transistor works as a current-controlled device, where a small base current regulates a larger collector current.
When the base-emitter junction is forward biased (base about 0.7 V above emitter), current flows from the collector to emitter, allowing signal amplification.

This makes the 2N5088 ideal for use as a voltage amplifier or switch in low-power electronic circuits.
Its high current gain ensures that even a small input can produce a significant output change, which is essential in audio preamp and sensor applications.

More Circuit Layouts

Typical Applications of 2N5088

• Audio preamplifier and tone-control stages
• Signal conditioning and feedback amplifiers
• Guitar pedals and hi-fi audio equipment
• Sensor output amplifiers
• Low-power analog switching
• Instrumentation and measurement circuits

Equivalent Transistors and Alternatives

• 2N3904 – General-purpose NPN transistor with lower gain
• BC550C – High-gain, low-noise NPN amplifier transistor
• MPSA18 – Ultra-high-gain replacement with similar characteristics
• 2SC2240 – Audio-grade Japanese equivalent
• S8050 – Common NPN transistor for general amplification use

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the maximum collector current of 2N5088?

It supports up to 100 mA collector current, ideal for small-signal circuits.

What is the typical gain range of 2N5088?

The DC current gain (hFE) ranges from 300 to 900, ensuring strong amplification in audio designs.

What is the 2N5088 pin configuration?

The 2N5088 pinout is Emitter – Base – Collector (E–B–C) from left to right when viewed from the flat face.

What is the package type of 2N5088?

The transistor is available in a TO-92 plastic package, perfect for through-hole PCB assembly.

Where is 2N5088 used?

Used in audio preamps, instrument amplifiers, guitar pedals, and low-noise circuits for superior sound clarity.

Conclusion

The 2N5088 NPN transistor is a premium low-noise, high-gain amplifier transistor ideal for audio and instrumentation applications.
With its 30 V collector-emitter voltage, 100 mA current capacity, and gain up to 900, it ensures high-fidelity performance in low-power signal circuits.
Compact, reliable, and easy to implement, the 2N5088 continues to be a top choice for designers and DIY audio enthusiasts seeking clean, amplified output and stability.

Datasheet & Pinout of 2N5088 NPN Transistor

Click the following Button to download the datasheet of 2N5088 Transistor :

More projects, You may like:

• Video Transmitter DIY Homemade FM Radio Transmitter
• Adjustable Power Supply DIY Battery Charger
• 12V-220V 500 Watt inverter DIY Homemade
• MPPT Solar Charge Controller DIY Homemade
• DIY LA4440 bass amplifier homemade

For more project and circuit diagrams, you can go through the Schematics in the main menu where you can find many interesting projects and circuit diagrams like audio amplifier circuits, voltage booster circuit, battery charger circuit and timer circuits etc., which are all beginner circuit projects. Feel free to check them out!

Thank you for visiting the article.