PHOBOS GERMANIUM FUZZ
19
GERMANIUM TRANSISTORS: Q3
Once Q1 and Q2 are done, you can remove Q3 from its bag. Q3 is a different type of transistor and
needs to be installed differently.
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. These transistors are rare, old, and expensive, and if this one is soldered incorrectly
then it 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.
Q3 will partially overlap the biasing trimmers on the right-hand side of the board, so make sure there is
enough clearance that the trimmers can be easily adjusted later.
PART VALUE
Q3
Germanium
EMITTER TAB
EMITTER TAB
