Why to know about transistors if one is not an IC designer?

[doncarlosalbatros]

I'm wondering for almost every application there is a specific op-Amp. As an electrical engineer one can build circuits and systems by using ready ICs; without transistors unless designing the IC itself.

So why do most text books put too much effort to explain transistors in such huge detail?

Why to bother and get choked in the details?

Do you use transistors much besides designing ICs?

 

[KlausST]

Hi,

you may open a couple of electronic devices. I´d say in 80% there is a transistor.
Either BJT, or FET, or MOSFET.

Klaus

 

[LvW]

I'm wondering for almost every application there is a specific op-Amp. As an electrical engineer one can build circuits and systems by using ready ICs; without transistors unless designing the IC itself.
So why do most text books put too much effort to explain transistors in such huge detail?
Why to bother and get choked in the details?
Do you use transistors much besides designing ICs?

For using analog IC`s one should, for example, know

* why the input nodes need a DC path to ground,
* why the IC has a finite input resistance,
* why the IC exhibits a finite slew rate,
* how a transitorized diff. amplier works,
* why such a device has a limited CMRR
* ..........
*

 

[dpaul]

So why do most text books put too much effort to explain transistors in such huge detail?
Why to bother and get choked in the details?
Do you use transistors much besides designing ICs?

Having sound fundamental knowledge of electronic ckt design is of paramount importance if one wants to have a career out of it. If building ckts is your hobby, yes then you may not learn the details. Just know the functionalities of various ICs, learn how to solder, and put together your stuff.
To answer your question, if you want to work at the level of a designer, you must learn how transistors work. If you are in to repair and maintenance work, then just knowledge about the functionalities of ICs/transistors/capacitors will suffice.

 

[CataM]

So why do most text books put too much effort to explain transistors in such huge detail?

That is how students see what is in the world of an analog IC designer and maybe if they like that world, they get involved in it. Somebody has to enter that world in order to make those ICs and OP amps you are using.

 

[dick_freebird]

Why do they teach spelling and grammar, before trying
to teach literature and writing?

 

[cjdelphi]

I'll resort to a transistor where possible vs opamp .. i find it easier

 

[Vraj]

ic 555 made with help of op-amp
op-amp made with transistors!
u can also make flip-flops with the help of transistors!
the text book want to give u such details that is help u to make something new
transistor make so many operations like acting as a switch, ...

 

[sudhanwaaa]

Because it wont be exaggeration to say that transistors are biggest invention of this century!!

 

[Akanimo]

Hi doncarlosalbatros,

Well, if you want to switch signals or amplify small signals, you may have to us discrete transistors as they may be more cost effective and take up lesser board space.
In Switched-mode power supplies, you cannot do without them. The benefits of learning about transistor operation in detail is great...you can't build much circuits without a transistor.

--Akanimo.