JFET

Science & Engineering abbreviation · Electronics & Electrical

JFET
Stands forJunction field-effect transistor
CategoriesScience & Engineering

JFET stands for Junction field-effect transistor, an electronics & electrical abbreviation.

Field-effect transistor in which a reverse-biased p-n junction, rather than an insulated gate, controls the channel. JFETs are normally on and are valued for low noise in audio preamplifiers, microphone capsules, guitar effects pedals and test instruments.

Example: Electret microphone capsules contain a tiny JFET that buffers the high-impedance signal.

Usage notes

JFETs were developed in the 1950s. Unlike MOSFETs, their gate junction must stay reverse-biased, so they turn off when a negative gate voltage pinches the channel. Classic parts such as the 2N5457 and J201 are prized by audio hobbyists.

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