Hey guys, I'm a bit of a n00b (Okay, more than just a bit) when it comes to electronics as far as circuitry. I've been involved with computers on a hobby level since I began teaching myself at age 8, but now I'm interested in getting involved in circuitry. I have been searching the internet for a good explanation on transistors, and more specifically, how they amplify signals or current. I have been able to find many great explanations that explain how to do it using transistors (ie. how to wire a circuit that does it), but I have yet to find an explanation that covers what is actually occuring. I am not able to read a schematic very well as of yet, and I'm still picking up the basic concepts, so I ask that you use easy-to-understand language with me. :) My first question: Question #1 How does a transistor amplify current? My understanding of a transistor so far is this: In an audio amplifier for example, a low power signal from a microphone is sent to the base pin of the Transistor, varying the conductivity, and allowing the Transistor to duplicate the same variances of the low power signal onto the much higher signal flowing from the emitter to the collecter. If that is incorrect, please correct me, as I am eager to learn! Now, the problem I have is that my current understanding of transitor amplification only allows for a small signal influencing a larger, more powerful one. How, then, does the Darlington Pair work? Is a transistor able to increase the power of a single signal without the need for a second, more powerful signal? Question #2 (More of a theoretical question) In a Crystal Radio, no power is needed because the radio power requirements are low enough that it can draw power from the signal. Is there any way to use the same concept of drawing power from a signal, or many signals, and then amplify it to the point where it could power other devices? If so, how would one amplify the power? Transistors? Thanks alot in advance, everyone! ;D
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