Chapter 18 Question 3
 
a. A magnetic relay used with a transistor is often connected with a diode across it. Explain the function of the diode. 3 marks
 
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When the current through the magnetic relay stops suddenly, a large e.m.f. would be induced across the relay. This would draw a large current through the transistor (see Fig.a). 1
With the diode connected (see Fig.b), the induced current would flow through the diode which is a much lower resistive path. This protects the transistor. 1
 
b. Draw a circuit diagram for determining the input-output voltage characteristics of a n-p-n transistor operating in the common emitter configuration. Give the approximate values of the resistance used in your circuit, explaining why they are used. 5 marks
 
Circuit for investigating the input-output voltage characteristics
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  • The base resistor is used to limit the base current to a safe value. Base current should be small because of the current amplification of the transistor.
  • The load resistance is to enable a potential drop which depends on the collector current. When the collector current is large, the p.d. across RL is large. Then the output voltage across C and E is small.
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c. Draw a graph of a typical input-output voltage characteristics. With reference to this characteristic, design circuits for 
i)    the thermostat of an electric iron.
8 marks 
 
Characteristic Input-output voltage
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The thermostat of an electric iron
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When temperature falls, the resistance of the thermistor increases. The p.d. across it increases. The input potential of the transistor increases. A base current flows to saturate the transistor. Since current flows throught the magnetic relay, the secondary circuit consisting of the electric iron is turned on. 2
 
ii)   a warning system when the temperature is above a certain pre-determined value.
 
Warning system when the temperature is above a certain pre-determined value
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When temperature increases, the resistance of the thermistor decreases. The p.d. across it decreases. The input potential of the transistor increases. A base current flows to saturate the transistor. Since current flows throught the magnetic relay, the secondary circuit consisting of the warning devices (like a light bulb) is turned on. 1
 
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