Product Overview
Vintage 2N5224 Gold-Lead Small-Signal NPN Transistor – Unused NOS
This early-style silicon transistor reflects packaging formats found in legacy laboratory, communications, and instrumentation equipment. Its rectangular epoxy body with sharp edges and gold-plated inline leads aligns with components used in mid- to late-20th-century electronic assemblies, making it a suitable choice for restorers, collectors, and bench-level study.
Product Condition
Unused, New Old Stock.
Product Overview
The 2N5224 is a JEDEC-series NPN transistor commonly used for low-level amplification, small-signal RF stages, and general-purpose switching. This example uses a distinctive block-style epoxy case with molded E-B-C terminal lettering on the front, gold-plated leads emerging in a straight inline configuration, and a circular side logo containing a cross pattern. Two hand-applied paint bands are present on the face, a detail historically used for part sorting. The item carries NSN 5961-00-387-1992.
Key Features
- Silicon NPN small-signal transistor (2N family)
- Vintage rectangular epoxy block package
- Gold-plated inline leads
- Molded E-B-C terminal labeling
- Side logo with circular cross-pattern mark
- Hand-applied paint bands on the body
- NSN 5961-00-387-1992
- Known for low-noise small-signal characteristics
- Representative of early transistor manufacturing practices
Applications
- Vintage electronics restoration
- Small-signal analog and RF experimentation
- Collector reference for early 2N-series devices
- Educational study of early transistor packaging
- Replacement part for period-correct test equipment
- General NPN switching roles in legacy circuits
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes this version of the 2N5224?
It uses a block-style epoxy package with gold-plated inline leads and molded terminal identification, unlike the later TO-92 versions.
What does the E-B-C lettering indicate?
It marks the emitter, base, and collector positions directly on the front of the package.
Why are the gold leads notable?
Gold-plated leads historically improved corrosion resistance and stable electrical contact in precision or long-term applications.
Who typically seeks this package style?
Collectors, restorers, and builders working on period-accurate equipment or studying early solid-state manufacturing methods.
You can pair its restoration usefulness with the gold-plated inline lead format when placing it into a vintage-style socket on your bench assembly.
