Product Overview
National Semiconductor 2N3956 Dual N-Channel JFET - Unused, Gold Leads
The National Semiconductor 2N3956 is a monolithic dual N-channel junction field-effect transistor (JFET) in a TO-71-6 metal can with gold-plated leads, designed for precision differential amplifier circuits.
Developed during the peak of National Semiconductor’s analog innovation era, the 2N3956 pairs two matched JFETs on a single chip for exceptional balance and low drift. Its design remains valued in analog restoration, prototyping, and instrumentation applications that depend on symmetry, low noise, and stable transconductance. This device’s quiet precision continues to earn it a place in modern labs and restoration benches alike.
Product Condition
Unused, New Old Stock. Kept in original packaging with clean, gold-plated leads and intact labeling. No corrosion or oxidation visible; shows only minor handling from storage.
Product Overview
National Semiconductor’s 2N3956 offers two closely matched N-channel JFETs integrated on one die, ensuring high common-mode rejection and consistent thermal tracking. The TO-71 metal can provides excellent shielding and thermal stability for low-level analog signals, while gold leads improve conductivity and corrosion resistance.
Key Features
- Dual matched N-channel JFETs integrated on a single chip
- TO-71-6 metal can package with gold-plated leads
- High input impedance with low noise and low gate leakage
- Maximum drain-source voltage: 50 V
- Typical drain current: 50 mA per section
- Power dissipation: approximately 250 mW per section
- Excellent linearity and temperature stability
- Ideal for balanced input stages and differential amplifier circuits
- Part of the 2N3956–2N3958 matched JFET series
Applications
- Wideband differential and high-input impedance amplifiers
- Instrumentation and precision analog front ends
- Operational amplifier input stages
- Low-noise measurement and audio preamplifiers
- Comparator and analog signal conditioning circuits
- Vintage equipment repair and restoration
- Analog experimentation and educational circuit design
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the 2N3956 unique among JFETs?
It integrates two matched N-channel JFETs on one die, delivering tight electrical matching and high common-mode rejection for differential applications.
Why are the leads gold-plated?
The gold plating enhances corrosion resistance and ensures consistent low-resistance connections, especially important for precision analog work.
What is the maximum voltage rating?
The device is rated for up to 50 V drain-source voltage and around 4 V gate-source voltage.
Is it compatible with modern surface-mount JFETs?
Not directly, but its transconductance and characteristics can be emulated with modern dual JFETs for legacy replacements.
How was this stock preserved?
Stored in original factory packaging under controlled conditions; leads remain clean with no oxidation or residue.
Born in National Semiconductor’s precision analog era, the 2N3956 still bridges vintage design and modern craftsmanship—its next chapter belongs to your circuit.
