Before we get into the sub-categories, we must split the transistor family into two main branches. This is the most important distinction to learn:
The name was a joke, really. A memorial. He was going to build a single, functioning logic gate—a NAND gate, the mother of all computation—using one of every transistor ever commercially manufactured . Not a simulation. Not a diagram. A physical, soldered, breathing circuit. alltransistors
| Do you need to... | Choose a... | Why? | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Small BJT (2N2222) | Cheap, easy to use, reliable. | | Amplify an audio signal | BJT or JFET | BJTs are linear; JFETs are quieter. | | Switch a Motor or High-Power LED | Power MOSFET | Low resistance, stays cool. | | Switch the "Positive" Rail | P-Channel MOSFET or PNP BJT | Designed for High-Side switching. | | Interface with 3.3V Logic | Logic Level MOSFET | Turns fully "ON" with low voltage. | Before we get into the sub-categories, we must