WESTERN ELECTRIC 1760 Germanium Bead Point Contact Transistor
( Brand: Western Electric ), ( Model: 1760 ), ( Part Type: Bead Point Contact ), ( Country/region Of Manufacture: United States )
Review WESTERN ELECTRIC Germanium Bead Type Point Contact Transistor Nib
The Western Electric 1760 is a germanium bead point contact transistor, a type of semiconductor device that is widely used in various electronic applications due to its unique electrical characteristics. This specific model, manufactured by Western Electric, is known for its high-quality construction and consistent performance.
The Western Electric 1760 transistor is designed with a germanium base material. Germanium is a semiconductor element that was commonly used in the early days of transistor technology before the more widely-used silicon. Component's construction features a bead-point contact structure. This structure is characterized by a small bead of semiconductor material, in this case, germanium, that is introduced into a metal can. The contact between the bead and a metal pin forms the collector and emitter, respectively.
This particular point contact transistor operates as a small signal amplifying device and can function as either a common emitter, common collector, or common base amplifier, depending on the circuit design. The 1760 model has a nominal collector-emitter voltage (VCE) of 15 volts, a maximum collector-emitter current (IC) of 100 milliamperes, and a maximum power dissipation of 0.25 watts. These specifications make it suitable for use in low-power amplification applications, such as vacuum tube replacement or radio frequency (RF) circuits.
The Western Electric 1760 also comes with excellent frequency response, making it a popular choice in applications where frequency handling is essential. It has a maximum frequency of oscillation (fmax) of approximately 400 megahertz. Its high input impedance and low output impedance enable it to perform exceptionally well in high-impedance drive applications.
The Western Electric 1760 point contact transistor is housed in a standard TO-5 metal can package, which ensures good thermal management and protection against external contaminants. Its lead configuration features two collector leads, one emitter lead, and a base lead, allowing for easy and versatile circuit design and implementation.
In summary, the Western Electric 1760 germanium bead point contact transistor is a high-performance, versatile semiconductor component, ideal for low-power amplification applications where its exceptional frequency response and stability are major advantages. The component's bead-point contact construction offers excellent electrical characteristics and reliability, making it a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals alike.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Western Electric 1760 Germanium Bead Point Contact Transistor
The Western Electric 1760 is a germanium bead point contact transistor that has gained a considerable following in the electronics hobbyist community due to its unique sound characteristics in audio applications. This transistor is known for its distinctive tonal quality, which sets it apart from its silicon counterparts. Here are some pros and cons to consider before purchasing a Western Electric 1760 germanium bead point contact transistor.
Pros:1. Unique Tone: The Western Electric 1760 produces a warm and round sound with a distinct harmonic profile. It can add an appealing, vintage tone to audio equipment, particularly in applications like amplifiers and vacuum tube preamplifiers. This makes it a popular choice for both hobbyists and professionals.
2. Versatility: The Western Electric 1760 can be used in various applications, including voltage amplifiers, audio power amplifiers, and other circuit designs. Its point contact structure allows it to handle both common emitter and common base configurations, adding to its versatility as a component.
3. Authenticity: Collectors and hobbyists might be attracted to the Western Electric 1760 due to its historical significance. As a component used in Western Electric telephone equipment throughout the 1950s, its availability and potential rarity add to its collector's appeal.
4. Availability: While the Western Electric 1760 might not be as readily available as modern silicon transistors, they can still be found on the collectors' market and from reputable suppliers. Prices vary depending on condition and availability, but they are generally affordable compared to some highly sought-after vintage components.
Cons:1. Fragile: The Western Electric 1760 germanium transistor is more delicate compared to silicon transistors. It's essential to handle them carefully, as they can be damaged more easily by greasy fingers, static discharge, or high temperatures. Proper handling and storage techniques are necessary to maintain their longevity.
2. Lower Hfe: The Hfe (current gain) of the Western Electric 1760 is generally lower than that of silicon transistors, resulting in a lower power output capability. You may require a more substantial power supply or additional current gain stages in your circuit to compensate for this limitation.
3. Volatility to Temperature: The temperature stability of the Western Electric 1760 is not as good as modern silicon transistors. The voltage and current gain of the transistor change with temperature, requiring precise temperature control for consistent performance.
4. Limited Applications: The Western Electric 1760 might not be the best choice for high current or high power conditions due to its relatively low power handling capabilities. It is recommended to use the transistor mainly for low to medium power applications where its unique tonal characteristics are desirable.
Conclusion:The Western Electric 1760 germanium bead point contact transistor offers a unique tonal character, versatility, authenticity, and a touch of history. However, it comes with the added challenges of fragility, lower current gain, temperature sensitivity, and limited power handling capabilities. If you're looking to add an unusual and warm character to your audio equipment and appreciate vintage components, the Western Electric 1760 may be an excellent addition to your collection. For more demanding applications, consider using modern silicon transistors or components specifically designed for those applications.
Details:
Includes original packing material. This is a rare component as it was only available to the military and telephone companies. It is the only one that I have ever seen in original box.
White epoxy semi-circular bead case. Please feel free to ask questions before buying.
specifications vintaelec:
- brand: Western Electric
- model: 1760
- part type: Bead Point Contact
- country/region of manufacture: United States
Offer vintaelec:
- Sold: 0
- bids: 0
- best offer: true
- Started: August 7, 2017, 5:30 pm
- quantity: 1
Payments vintaelec:
- CashOnPickup
- PayPal
Ratings:
- Excellent Buyer, highly recommended. Thanks 12-04-15
- Good Seller ,Thank you 08-04-17
- Live long and prosper. 01-20-17
- Live long and prosper. 01-23-16
- Thank you! 07-03-16
Returns vintaelec:
- policy: no returns
Shipping vintaelec:
- type: Flat
- cost: $0.0
- handling: 3 days
General vintaelec:
- vintage electronics > equipment
- in stock: Yes
- condition: New
Seller vintaelec:
- zipcode: 14051
- city: East Amherst, New York
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