What Is a FET Transistor?
A FET (Field Effect Transistor) is a semiconductor device that controls the flow of current using electrical fields. It’s a type of transistor, similar to bipolar junction transistors (BJTs) and insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), but operates differently.
Applications of FET Transistors
FET transistors are widely used in integrated circuits across various electronic devices, from industrial machinery to everyday home appliances and smartphones. They are preferred for their low power consumption, fast switching speeds, and temperature stability.
Principle of The FET Transistor
FET transistors utilize semiconductor properties, which conduct electricity under certain conditions. Semiconductors are classified as p-type or n-type, and a FET consists of these semiconductors. It has three terminals: source, gate, and drain. The current flow between the source and drain is controlled by the gate voltage.
Types of FET Transistors
There are two main types of FETs:
- JFET (Junction Field Effect Transistor): Utilizes a pn-junction where either an n-type is embedded in a p-type gate or vice versa. Current flow is controlled by creating a depletion layer.
- MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field Effect Transistor): Includes an oxide film as an insulator. The current flow is controlled by forming a channel between the source and drain, instead of a depletion layer.
Both types come in N-channel and P-channel varieties, with MOSFETs further divided into enhancement and depletion types.
Other Information On FET Transistors
Other transistor types include BJTs, which are current-driven, and IGBTs, which are voltage-driven and require less driving power. Each type has its specific applications and advantages.