Measuring specs on a transistor

[res3210]

Hey all,

So I took apart an old computer monitor to try and harvest some of the hardware inside so I don't have to buy all that stuff for my hobbying, and I was wondering if it is possible to measure the specs on the transistors inside without having to put them into a circuit and see how much they can handle before they are destroyed. I know I can test the resistance and whether its PNP or NPN, but I need to know how much wattage, voltage drop, and amperage they can handle. Is there an easy way?

Thanks

 

[phyzguy]

They should have a number stamped on them (like 2N2304) that you can use to look up the spec on line. Before you invest too much time, you might want to look into just buying some new ones. Discrete transistors cost only a few cents apiece.