Hi,

I hope that I have posted in the correct section !
I'm trying my best to test a IRBF11N50A MOSFET, although I am wondering if i may be doing this incorrectly ?

*test 1=I have a fully working MOSFET (different spec one) ,I use a small component tester and shows up fully working and shows the correct MOSFET symbol on the screen.

*test 2=I then use a multimeter (diode setting) and test, touching the gate(G) to apply small voltage and then check that the drain(D) and source(S) works correctly and then discharge using my finger.

However when testing a IRBF11N50A the above two methods do not work ?(assuming this is N channel as the N in the spec)(and from left to right is GDS)

What am I doing wrong ???????

Any help or suggestions great fully received,

Thanks Aspiespot.

 

You really have to watch those "Fingers".

A Finger can destroy the Gate of a MOS Device instantly.

The Gate should never be left in a "Floating" condition until it is solidly
connected to the Circuit where it will reside,
and that Circuit must, of course, contain other devices designed to protect the Gate.
( usually a Resistor, or a Zener-Diode )
.
.
.

 

Datasheet: https://www.vishay.com/docs/91094/91094.pdf

A multi-meter on the diode setting may not put a high enough voltage on the gate to turn the MOSFET on - this MOSFET may need >4.5v, or it could be dead. Measure resistance Gate to Source, should be open circuit. If its not then you killed it!

 

I would prefer in similar case the fool-proof approach: to set in the drain some 12 V incandescent lamp from the vehicle, set source to the car battery minus, set gate via the 100 Ohm to the plus, where lamp other wire goes. Lamp must bright shine. Then set the gate to the source. Lamp must become completely dark. If happens like this, the transistor is OK.

 

I agree with the test-in-use approach. It eliminates all doubt. But double-check the datasheet for that manufacturer to be sure which pin is which. It's very easy to get them wrong.

 

Thanks for all the suggestions I have learnt a great deal,I can confirm that the MOSFET works perfectly with 4.5v to the gate!!! Thanks again