Quick Answer: The FET Characteristics Apparatus is used to plot the drain and transfer characteristics of a junction FET and find its pinch-off voltage and transconductance. It has separate regulated supplies of 0–15V for the drain and 0–5V for the gate.
Last updated: October 2026
Key Features
Drain supply (VDS) 0–15V DC, regulated
Gate supply (VGS) 0–5V DC, regulated
Two voltmeters, 5V and 15V DC ranges
Ammeter 0–25mA DC
Built-in JFET on a bakelite panel with circuit diagram
4mm shrouded, colour-coded sockets
Technical Specifications
Specification
Value
Drain supply (VDS)
Variable DC regulated, 0–15V
Gate supply (VGS)
Variable DC regulated, 0–5V
Voltmeters
Dual analog, 5V / 15V DC
Ammeter
Analog, 0–25mA DC
Device
Integrated JFET
Panel
Bakelite with circuit diagram
Dimensions
280mm x 205mm x 85mm (nominal)
About This Product
Holding the gate voltage fixed and stepping the drain voltage gives the drain curves; holding the drain voltage and stepping the gate gives the transfer curve. From these students read off the pinch-off voltage and work out transconductance in electronics practicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which FET parameters can be measured?
The apparatus is used to find the pinch-off voltage and transconductance from the drain and transfer characteristics.