Author Topic: PNP Transistor  (Read 2159 times)

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Offline friend60115Topic starter

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PNP Transistor
« on: March 17, 2011, 05:29:55 am »
When should I use a PNP transistor?

I like using NPN, its very easy to use, why there is a PNP?

I tried to read about did not find something that explains it in simple words.

Thanks in advance!

 

Offline Psi

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Re: PNP Transistor
« Reply #1 on: March 17, 2011, 07:23:27 am »
In very simple words,  NPN is good when you want to pull something to ground.  If you want to pull something to VCC with a NPN you need to rely on a resistor to do the pulling. The NPN pulls the output to GND when on and the resistor pulls the output to VCC when the NPN is off. (or somewhere in the middle when the transistor is half on etc.)

If you use a PNP then its the opposite, you can pull things to VCC, but require a resistor to pull low when the PNP is off.

Ideally you don't want the resistor at all, because it wastes energy, so using both a NPN and PNP together you can make a circuit which can pull the load to either VCC or GND.



Greek letter 'Psi' (not Pounds per Square Inch)
 

Offline tyblu

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Re: PNP Transistor
« Reply #2 on: March 19, 2011, 04:17:35 pm »
For even better power savings, use N- and P-type FETs...
Tyler Lucas, electronics hobbyist
 


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