2N5088 Pinout – An All-Inclusive Guide

What is the 2n5088 pinout?  

2N5088 is a BJT (specifically NPN) ideal for small signal general-purpose switching applications. Besides coming in a TO-92 package, the transistor works for high gain amplification and low noise. 

Bipolar Junction Transistor NPN circuit symbol

Source; Wikimedia 

Additionally, a bipolar current controls 2N5088. Applying voltage at its base terminals causes it to receive biasing. Then, it will draw a current to regulate the large current at the collector and emitter sides.

NPN and PNP BJT symbols

Source; Wikimedia 

2n5088 Pin Configuration

2N5088 transistor is a three-pinned element. Its pinout consists of;

• Pin1/ Emitter pin – It allows current to drain out through it.
• Pin2/ Base pin – It regulates the transistor’s biasing.
• Pin3/ Collector pin – It permits current inflow into the transistor. 

(Black 2N5088 transistor)

Features

Some of the features and specifications of the 2N5088 transistor include;

• First, it has an operating and junction temperature between -55 to +150°C.
• Then, its DC gain is at a minimum of 100 hFe and a maximum of 900 hFe.
• Thirdly, its emitter-base voltage is 3.0 Vdc. 
• It has a collector-base voltage of 35 Vdc, whereas its collector-emitter voltage is 30 Vdc. 
• Its low voltage is at 30V maximum, while its low current is at 100nA maximum. 
• It also has a maximum transition frequency (fT) of 50 MHz and a maximum collector dissipation (Pc) of 625 mW. 
• Besides being a Pb-free device, it has low noise and a higher gain value. 
• Finally, the NPN transistor comes in a TO-92 package type. Sometimes, it’ll come in a SOT-23 package, but ensure you check the datasheet for the pin diagram and arrangement. 

(SOT-23 transistor)

Equivalent 

If by any chance you miss a 2N5088 transistor, you can use the following alternatives;

• S9014, ZTX692/4/6, MPS6602,
• MPS650/1, KTC9014, 2N2222,
• MPSA18, 2N5210, BC108,
• 2N4401, 2N3904, and 2N5089

2N3904

Source; Freesvg

How do you use 2n5088?

Generally, you can use a 2N5088 transistor as an amplifier or switch in a circuit. 

First, you’ll only need to supply a 3V base-emitter voltage crossway between the emitter and base terminals to induce a base current in 2N5088. Then, the transistor will forward bias the voltage, closing the connection between the emitter and collector. 

Note: The base resistor is also a current-limiting resistor. It prevents damage to the transistor by limiting the current flowing through it. 

Further, you can use the formula below to calculate the resistor value.

RB = VBE / IB

Now, let’s look at a simple circuit design where you can use 2N5088 as a switch. However, not that when practically making the switch, you’ll need to make some modifications. Our simplified circuit below has a 1K current limiting resistor and a base voltage of 5V. 

Circuit diagram using 2N5088 transistor

Application

You are most likely to find 2N5088 transistors in the following applications;

• Darlington pairs,
• Sensor circuits,

(passive motion sensor electronic circuit)

• Audio amplifiers, including their stages,
• Mic amplifier,
• Audio preamplifiers,
• Switching loads under 100mA with 200mA in peak mode
• Low noise stages in audio equipment. 

Conclusion

Depending on the application, the 2N5088 BJT NPN transistor either functions as a switch that drives different loads or as an amplifier. Its application in signal amplifications mainly stems from its DC high gains feature. 

Do not hesitate to contact us for more information on the transistor and its usage.