2N290

The 2N290 is a reliable NPN bipolar junction transistor designed for general-purpose amplification and switching tasks. It offers a balanced combination of current handling and gain that suits hobbyist projects, educational kits, and many basic circuit designs where predictable, robust performance is required. Key electrical characteristics include a collector-emitter voltage rating of 40V and a maximum collector current of 600mA, allowing stable operation under moderate voltage and current stresses. The device dissipates up to 625mW of power, which helps manage heat in compact layouts, and it exhibits a gain bandwidth product of approximately 100MHz for effective amplification at moderate frequencies. Collector-Emitter Voltage: 40V Collector Current: Up to 600mA Power Dissipation: 625mW Gain Bandwidth Product: ~100MHz Package Type: TO-18 metal can Encased in a TO-18 metal can, the 2N290 benefits from durable construction and improved thermal conductivity, contributing to reliable long-term operation. Its well-established silicon transistor architecture provides low noise and predictable gain, making circuit behavior easier to design and troubleshoot. While not optimized for the highest-frequency or highest-power contemporary applications, the 2N290 remains a practical choice where straightforward characteristics and robustness are priorities.