Why are transistors called "Q"?

From: Gooijen H <GOOI_at_oce.nl>
Date: Sat Feb 26 00:38:57 2005

Beta is indeed the base/collector amplification factor for transistors.
Q is the quality of a tuned L/C circuit. The resistive part which dampens
the L/C tuned circuit causes the Q to decrease when that resistive value
get lower. Q depends on several factors, mainly determined by the coil.

- Henk, PA8PDP.


> "T" was taken (Transformer). That was also a problem when tubes began
> being used. I think they use X for tubes, don't they?
>
> Q" is quality factor, related to gain, but the gain of a transistor is
> b (beta) isn't it?




At 01:10 AM 2/26/2005 +0000, you wrote:

>Here's a question that came up at the office when a colleague looked
>at a PCB and asked "why are the transistors labelled with Q?" Well,
>I suggested it might be to avoid a clash with "T" for transformer.
>Or maybe "Q" represents a generic semiconductor, such as a FET, SCR
>or triac. Or is there some other reason?
>
>--
>John Honniball
>coredump_at_gifford.co.uk


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Received on Sat Feb 26 2005 - 00:38:57 GMT