What are the different modes of operation for a MOSFET?
Technical Blog / Author: icDirectory / Date: Apr 06, 2024 15:04
Let%27s explore the different modes of operation for a MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor) in detail:

1. Cut-Off Region:
- In this mode, the MOSFET is in the OFF state.
- No current flows between the source and drain terminals.
- The channel acts as an insulator, effectively preventing the flow of electrons.

2. Linear (Triode) Region (Ohmic Region):
- When the gate voltage is within a certain range, the MOSFET enters the linear region.
- Here, the MOSFET behaves like an amplifier or a variable resistor.
- The drain current (IDS) increases linearly with the gate-source voltage (VGS).

3. Saturation Region:
- In this region, the MOSFET acts as a closed switch.
- The channel is fully open, allowing maximum current flow from the source to the drain.
- Further increases in VGS do not significantly affect the drain current.

Types of MOSFETs:
- Depletion MOSFET (D-MOSFET):
- Also known as "normally ON" MOSFET.
- Has a built-in channel during manufacturing.
- Applying gate voltage reduces the channel width, switching the MOSFET OFF.
- Enhancement MOSFET (E-MOSFET):
- Also known as "normally OFF" MOSFET.
- No channel during fabrication, but it is induced by applying voltage.
- Broken line in the symbol represents the absence of a channel at zero gate-source voltage.

In summary, understanding these modes of operation helps in designing and analyzing MOSFET-based circuits for various applications¹²³⁴.


(1) MOSFET - Working, Types, Operation, Advantages & Applications. https://www.electricaltechnology.org/2021/06/mosfet.html.
(2) What is MOSFET? Types, Operation and Applications. https://bing.com/search?q=modes+of+operation+for+a+MOSFET+in+detail+and+English.
(3) What are the modes of operation of MOSFET - Electrotopic.com. https://electrotopic.com/what-are-the-modes-of-operation-of-mosfet/.
(4) MOSFET Basics | Types, Working, Structure, and Applications. https://www.electronicsforu.com/technology-trends/learn-electronics/mosfet-basics-working-applications.
(5) MOSFET: Types, Working Principles and Applications. https://www.ampheo.com/blog/mosfet-types-working-principles-and-applications.html.

icDirectory Limited | https://www.icdirectory.com/b/blog/what-are-the-different-modes-of-operation-for-a-mosfet.html
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