Described as active solid-state electronic devices, field effect transistors feature a U-shaped or rounded metal with three connection wires that allow us to use electric current from one source to create another electrical signal. The term "transistor" is actually short for "transfer resistor," meaning that electricity is transferred from an input signal to an output signal. Sound amplifiers, electrical switches and radios are the most common examples of a field effect transistor (FET).

The field effect transistor has different forms, including the metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor, or the metal semiconductor field effect transistor. The MOS field effect transistor contains an insulated silicon dioxide layer. Its characteristics include low frequencies and high noise levels. A metal semiconductor field effect transistor is used in microwave integrated circuits or in low-noise amplifiers. Variations of the field effect transistor include an organic field effect transistor, an ion sensitive field effect transistor and a nanotube field effect transistor. When creating or distributing field effect transistors for your company, note that:

1. Field effect transistors manufacturers should be certified.

2. Accessories and replacement parts for field effect transistors should be in stock.

3. Some manufacturers customize field effect transistors to meet customer needs and demands.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find certified manufacturers of field effect transistors

Locate field effect transistors and components that are industry approved.

I recommend: API Electronics supplies field effect transistors that are ISO, or International Organization for Standardization, compliant. Inductoheat also manufactures ISO-approved field effect transistors and other power sources.

Shop for accessories and other parts for field effect transistors

Power components and other accessories work well with a junction field effect transistor, a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor or a metal semiconductor field effect transistor.

I recommend: Arrow Electronics stocks field effect transistors for your power supply needs. Access Electronics Management offers field effect transistors, integrated circuits and RF amplifiers, as well as parts testing services.

Search for field effect transistors manufacturers who can meet customer specifications

Choose a field effect transistor, a metal semiconductor field effect transistor and a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor designed for multiple applications.

I recommend: Linear Systems designs and tests field effect transistors for distribution to the audio, space and medical markets. NTE Electronics keeps a large inventory of field effect transistors for amplifiers, general purpose, linear and switching applications for consumers as well as commercial and industrial outlets.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Organic field effect transistors are made from organic semiconductor molecules instead of silicon. They can be produced at lower temperatures, and they are compatible with plastics.
• •  Known as a chemical sensor, the ion sensitive field effect transistor measures the pH levels in solutions related to environmental applications, while the nanotube field effect transistor conducts well with graphite or with polymers.