Definition

Noun: A field-effect transistor is a type of transistor where the flow of electrical current through a semiconductor channel is controlled by the application of an electric field. This electric field modulates the conductivity of the channel, thereby regulating the current.

Usage

The term is used to describe a specific, fundamental electronic component in circuits. It is often abbreviated as FET. * The amplifier design relies on a field-effect transistor for its high input impedance. * A key advantage of the field-effect transistor over other types is its voltage-controlled operation.

Advanced Usage

• "to act as a field-effect transistor": To function with the principle of field-effect control.
  • In this novel material configuration, the device can act as a field-effect transistor at room temperature.

Variants and Related Words

• FET (n): The common abbreviation for field-effect transistor.
  • The circuit schematic specifies an n-channel FET.
• MOSFET (n): Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor, a very common and important type of FET.
  • Modern computer processors contain billions of MOSFETs.
• JFET (n): Junction Field-Effect Transistor, another major type.
  • A JFET is often used in analog switching applications.

Synonyms

• Transistor: A broader category of semiconductor devices for amplification and switching, which includes the field-effect transistor.
• Active device: A general term for electronic components, like transistors, that can control electron flow.

Related Phrases

• Field-effect: The physical principle of controlling a channel with an electric field, which gives the transistor its name.
  • The field-effect is the underlying mechanism for its operation.

Noun

1. a transistor in which most current flows in a channel whose effective resistance can be controlled by a transverse electric field