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user111_23
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Doesn't a transistor switch need a mechanical switch? Otherwise, how does the transistor switch turn on and off? Does the switch have a "mind" of it's own?
Bob S said:A transistor switch, e.g., an npn transistor, can be triggered by a sound, light (photodetector), an electrical signal, or a radio signal (e.g., garage door opener).
Bob S
What did you have in mind?╔(σ_σ)╝ said:I believe the answer to your last question can be readily found by considering the NMOS or PMOS transistor.
I've got a little black box I am our sunroom, about 5 or 6 cm on a side. It plugs into the wall socket. It has a photodetector on it, and a knob labeled OFF ON 1 Hr 2Hr 4Hr 8Hr.vk6kro said:A good example.. Suppose you want to turn on a light when the sun goes down.
You have a light detector driving a transistor switch which turns on the light. It isn't as simple as that, but you get the idea.
How would you do that with a mechanical switch?
The main difference between a mechanical switch and a transistor switch is the way they control the flow of electricity. A mechanical switch physically opens and closes a circuit, while a transistor switch uses a small electrical signal to control a larger flow of electricity.
In terms of durability, a transistor switch is typically more reliable than a mechanical switch. This is because mechanical switches are prone to wear and tear from constant physical movement, while transistor switches have no moving parts and therefore have a longer lifespan.
Mechanical switches are typically larger in size compared to transistor switches. This is because mechanical switches require physical components such as levers, buttons, and springs, while transistor switches are made up of tiny semiconductor materials that can be easily miniaturized.
No, mechanical switches and transistor switches serve different purposes and cannot be used interchangeably. Mechanical switches are better suited for simple on/off operations, while transistor switches are used for more complex switching tasks that require precise control over the flow of electricity.
In modern electronic devices, transistor switches are more commonly used. This is because they are smaller, more efficient, and can be easily integrated into complex electronic circuits. Mechanical switches are still used in certain applications, such as in household appliances and industrial equipment.