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How to read datasheets

Which is correct about a MOSFET with VGS(th) specified as 1.0–2.5 V (ID = 250 µA)?

  1. AAs long as VGS is at or above the maximum VGS(th) of 2.5 V, the RDS(on) specified in the table is obtained
  2. BVGS(th) rises with temperature, so the MOSFET becomes harder to turn on at higher temperatures
  3. CVGS(th) is the voltage at which a tiny current begins to flow; low RDS(on) requires driving at the specified VGS
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Answer: C. VGS(th) is the voltage at which a tiny current begins to flow; low RDS(on) requires driving at the specified VGS

VGS(th) is the gate voltage at which the drain current reaches a tiny value such as 250 µA; at this point, large currents still cannot flow with low resistance. RDS(on) is specified with conditions such as VGS = 10 V or 4.5 V, so check whether RDS(on) is specified at the voltage you can actually drive. To drive directly from a 3.3 V microcontroller, choose a logic-level part specified at VGS = 2.5 V or similar. VGS(th) decreases as temperature rises, so the device actually turns on more easily at high temperature.

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