Transistor Bias Calculator

Calculate the base resistor for a BJT in common-emitter configuration to set a target collector current.

V
V
mA

Base Resistor

113,000 Ω

Base Current100.0 µA
Transistor Power120.0 mW

Base Resistor vs Supply Voltage (Vcc)

BJT Transistor Biasing

In common-emitter configuration a base resistor sets the operating point.

Formula

I_B = I_C / hFE

R_B = (Vcc - V_BE) / I_B

Where hFE is DC current gain and V_BE is typically 0.7 V for silicon. This simple bias is beta-dependent; voltage divider bias provides better stability.

Example Calculation

Bias a transistor with hFE=100 for 10 mA collector current from 12 V.

  1. 01I_B = 10 mA / 100 = 0.1 mA = 100 uA
  2. 02R_B = (12 - 0.7) / 0.0001 = 113,000 ohms (113k)
  3. 03Power = 12 x 10 = 120 mW

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Ohm's Law Guide

A complete guide to Ohm's Law. Learn the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance, with practical examples, the power triangle, and circuit analysis tips.

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