PNP Transistor
The complement to the NPN transistor. Current flows from emitter to collector when the base is pulled below the emitter voltage. Commonly used in high-side switching and complementary push-pull output stages.
Properties
| Property | Description | Default | Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vce_max | Maximum emitter–collector voltage magnitude (V) | 40 V | 5 V – 600 V |
| Ic_max | Maximum continuous collector current (A) | 0.6 A | 1 mA – 100 A |
| hFE | DC current gain — Ic / Ib ratio | 100 | 20 – 1 000 |
| Vbe | Base–emitter forward voltage magnitude (V) | 0.7 V | 0.5 V – 0.9 V |
Simulation behavior
Operates as the mirror image of the NPN. The transistor turns on when the base is pulled lower than the emitter by at least Vbe. Collector current flows from emitter to collector.
The same failure conditions apply: exceeding Ic_max or |Vce| > Vce_max causes the transistor to fail open.
Tips
- The emitter of a PNP transistor connects to the positive supply rail — this is the most common wiring mistake when switching from NPN designs.
- Pair a PNP (high-side) with an NPN (low-side) to build a push-pull output stage that can source and sink current efficiently.
- To turn the PNP fully off, drive the base to the same potential as the emitter (no Vbe difference).