At 02:18 AM 2/22/2004 +1300, you wrote:

>Again, whether the transistor survived depends on the value of R and
>transistor reverse bias base current rating.

Beyond survival (easy to predict from the maximum power dissipation,
current and breakdown voltage-typically around 6-7 V),
allowing the E-B junction to break down with significant current has
negative implications if you ever want to use the part as a transistor
again (beta degradation). Useful in some situations, but generally bad juju.

Best regards,

Spehro Pefhany --"it's the network..."            "The Journey is the reward"
speff@interlog.com             Info for manufacturers: http://www.trexon.com
Embedded software/hardware/analog  Info for designers:  http://www.speff.com

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