DEIMOS GERMANIUM FUZZ
18
GERMANIUM TRANSISTORS
Now that we’ve covered the basics of germanium transistors, it’s time to install them. Remove Q1 from
the bag. As mentioned on the previous page, it’s important to leave the other transistors in their bags
and only remove them when it’s time to solder so they don’t get mixed up.
First, note the emitter tab. The diagram to the right shows the transistor
from the side, so the third leg is hidden behind the first.
Bend the legs down at a right angle as shown in the next diagram. The outer
legs should be bent around 0.25” to 0.3” from the body, and the center leg
(base pin) should be 0.15” to 0.2”.
Now, mount it to the PCB at a right angle with the top of the transistor
pointed toward the bottom of the PCB, as shown in the PCB graphic at the
top of this page. It will overlap some of the resistors. The third diagram
shows a side view.
Make sure there’s some clearance above the resistors. The resistors are
electrically insulated, so it’s not going to cause any problems if the metal
body of the transistor makes contact, but it’s best to keep them apart.
Before soldering, double-check the orientation against the PCB diagram above and ensure the emitter
tab is on the left. The transistors are rare, old, and expensive, and if they’re soldered incorrectly then
they could be easily damaged when removing them.
If everything looks good, go ahead and solder the legs in place. Be quick and make sure the transistor
casing doesn’t get too hot or the transistor could be damaged.
Once Q1 is finished, go back and repeat the same steps with Q2, and again with Q3.
Q2 and Q3 will partially overlap the biasing trimmers on the right-hand side of the board. These two
transistors should be elevated slightly more than Q1 to allow for easier access to the trimmers.
PART VALUE
Q1
Germanium
Q2
Germanium
Q3
Germanium
EMITTER TAB
EMITTER TAB
