Testing a transistor involves several methods to ensure proper functionality. One common method is using a multimeter in diode test mode. To test a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), you place the multimeter probes on the base and collector leads and observe the voltage drop. Then, you reverse the probes and check the other junction (base-emitter). Proper operation shows a voltage drop around 0.6V to 0.7V for silicon BJTs in one direction and a high resistance or open circuit in the reverse direction. For field-effect transistors (FETs), you measure resistance between the gate and source/drain terminals to check for proper conduction paths.
Determining if a transistor is faulty involves a few indicators. Using a multimeter in diode test mode, you can check each junction (base-emitter, base-collector for BJTs; gate-source, gate-drain for FETs) for shorts or open circuits. A transistor is likely faulty if both directions show low resistance or continuity, indicating a short. Additionally, using a transistor tester can provide more detailed readings of gain and leakage, helping identify faulty transistors showing unexpected readings or no response during testing.
There are two primary methods for testing transistors: static and dynamic tests. Static tests involve using a multimeter or transistor tester to measure the DC parameters of the transistor, such as forward voltage drops and resistance values between terminals. Dynamic tests involve applying varying signals to the transistor’s terminals to observe its response, assessing parameters like gain, frequency response, and switching characteristics. Both methods are essential for comprehensive testing to ensure proper operation and diagnose faults accurately.
Testing a shorted transistor requires careful observation and diagnostic tools. With a multimeter in diode test mode, check each junction (base-emitter, base-collector for BJTs; gate-source, gate-drain for FETs) for unexpected low resistance or continuity in both directions. A shorted transistor will typically show a low resistance or near-zero reading in both directions across the affected junctions. Additionally, using a transistor tester or oscilloscope can help confirm abnormal behavior or lack of expected response during dynamic testing, indicating a short or internal fault within the transistor.