Basic circuit problem about BJT and buzzer

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    Bjt Circuit
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a basic circuit problem involving a BJT (Bipolar Junction Transistor) and a buzzer, focusing on the threshold voltage (Vt) of a MOSFET, circuit analysis techniques, and the implications of component values in the circuit.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants clarify that Vt refers to the threshold voltage of the MOSFET, which determines whether the transistor conducts current based on the gate to source voltage.
  • There is a discussion about the correct notation for resistor values, with some participants suggesting that "20 kW" should be "20 kΩ" or "20,000Ω".
  • One participant proposes analyzing the circuit with R1 and (R2//C) in series, indicating that until the capacitor is charged to Vt, the transistor remains off.
  • Another view suggests calculating the Thevenin resistance (Rt) as (R1 // R2), which is in series with the capacitor (C1).
  • Participants discuss the time constant of the circuit, with one participant expressing uncertainty about deriving the equivalent circuit and the time constant formula.
  • A later reply mentions the importance of Thevenin's Theorem and suggests offline study for deeper understanding of circuit analysis techniques.
  • One participant raises a concern about the type of buzzer used, suggesting that a traditional make-break buzzer could damage the transistor without additional protective components.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need for clarification regarding the circuit components and analysis methods, but multiple competing views remain regarding the correct approach to circuit analysis and the implications of using different types of buzzers.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made about component values and the specific circuit configuration. Some mathematical steps and definitions are not fully resolved, particularly in the context of deriving equivalent circuits.

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New user has been reminded to always show their work on schoolwork problems.
Homework Statement
Find the time when the the buzzer first emits in the circuit below.
Relevant Equations
Noton theorem;
1701560257581.png

I don’t understand what does the v_t mean?
 
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Vt is the threshold voltage of the MOSFET. When the gate to source voltage (same as the capacitor voltage) is greater than Vt, the transistor will conduct current from the drain to the source. If it's less than Vt the transistor is off.
 
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Welcome to PF.

R1 = R2 = 20 kW ; kilowatt ?
Maybe those should be 20 k ohms = 20k
 
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For your example, that 20kW should be either 20kΩ or 20,000Ω

Ω is the uppercase Greek letter Omega, which is used to indicates Ohms; lower case Ω is ω.

It looks like whoever did the typesetting for that book got rather confused between Greek, Latin, uppercase, lowercase! :rolleyes:

Oh well, at least you learned a bit of trivia. :oldwink:

Cheers,
Tom
 
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Baluncore said:
Welcome to PF.

R1 = R2 = 20 kW ; kilowatt ?
Maybe those should be 20 k ohms = 20k
Yes, I guess there is a type
 
DaveE said:
Vt is the threshold voltage of the MOSFET. When the gate to source voltage (same as the capacitor voltage) is greater than Vt, the transistor will conduct current from the drain to the source. If it's less than Vt the transistor is off.
Got it! So until the capacitor is charged to Vt, the transistor is off, which means I just analyze the circuit in which R1 and (R2//C) are in series. Now I guess I know how to solve it. Thanks much!
 
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ZoeDale said:
.... which means I just analyze the circuit in which R1 and (R2//C) are in series.
Another view of the problem.
( R1 // R2 ) = Rt, the Thevenin resistance at Vt.
Rt is in series with C1.
 
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Baluncore said:
Another view of the problem.
( R1 // R2 ) = Rt, the Thevenin resistance at Vt.
Rt is in series with C1.
Yes, the easy way, LOL.
It also requires that you find the equivalent (Thevenin) voltage source. 5V in this case.

Most simple transient problems can be solved with just knowing the initial state, the final state, and the time constant. But they don't really teach that most places.
 
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DaveE said:
Yes, the easy way, LOL.
It also requires that you find the equivalent (Thevenin) voltage source. 5V in this case.

Most simple transient problems can be solved with just knowing the initial state, the final state, and the time constant. But they don't really teach that most places.
Oh!!! So the time constant is decided by the equal circuit of Rt in series with C? So time constant \tao = Rt* C = 10k * 100m = 1000 ???!!! I need to go back to learn how I can derive that "( R1 // R2 ) = Rt, the Thevenin resistance at Vt." Thanks, Baluncore and Dave!
 
  • #10
ZoeDale said:
Yes, I guess there is a type
typo
 
  • #11
DaveE said:
Yes, the easy way, LOL.
It also requires that you find the equivalent (Thevenin) voltage source. 5V in this case.

Most simple transient problems can be solved with just knowing the initial state, the final state, and the time constant. But they don't really teach that most places.
Oh!!! So the time constant is decided by the equal circuit of Rt in series with C? So time constant \tao = Rt* C = 10k * 100m = 1000 ???!!! I need to go back to learn how I can derive that "( R1 // R2 ) = Rt, the Thevenin resistance at Vt." Thanks Baluncore and Dave!
Baluncore said:
Another view of the problem.
( R1 // R2 ) = Rt, the Thevenin resistance at Vt.
Rt is in series with C1.
hi Baluncore, I didn’t get it how to derive the equivalent circuit of (R1//R2) in series with C, can you please tell me more about it? Or if it is convenient, can you show me the equivalent circuit? Thanks much!
 
  • #12
You'll want to search for "Thevenin's Theorem" and "Thevenin and Norton source transformation" to learn more about these analysis techniques. This is the easy way to solve simple networks, IMO.

I think some offline study is your next best step. We can't really teach this with short comments. However, it's not difficult once you are familiar with KVL/KCL analysis.
 
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  • #13
Tangential, I must hope that is a benign 'solid-state' sounder rather than a 'trad' make-break buzzer. Latter would rapidly kill the transistor as-is. Would need sundry spike-quenching components, as if for a small brush-commutated motor. eg protective diodes, 0.1 uf capacitors, back-to-back zeners etc etc...
 

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