[sdiy] And another dumb question ( LM394 related )

[simon.oo.o at xs4all.nl]

harrybissell zei:
> It shows that if you reverse bias the B-E junction it will conduct. This
> will prevent reverse breakdown which ~some~ datasheets indicate will
> permantly degrade the device.

right, significant reverse current into the base may permanently affect
the current amplification and noise performance of the transistor. The BE
junction zener voltage for silicon transistors is typically around 5V.

Note that a reverse biased BE junction is sometimes used to make a noise
generator, of course in this case "noise performance" has a different
meaning...


Vriendelijke groet,

Simon Brouwer
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