Philips Semiconductor Lock-Fit Transistor Keychain 1966

Description: Philips Semiconductor Lock-Fit Transistor Keychain (1966) - Vintage Tech Collectible Description: Step back in time to the pioneering days of semiconductor technology with this rare Philips Semiconductor Lock-Fit Transistor Keychain from 1966. This unique promotional item contains a Lock-Fit transistor encapsulated in acrylic, an early example of Philips’ innovative approach to transistor packaging. The keychain showcases a BC Series silicon NPN bipolar junction transistor, which was part of the Lock-Fit family of transistors. These devices were designed for general-purpose, low-power applications and marked an important chapter in the evolution of consumer electronics. The Lock-Fit transistors were first introduced by Philips in 1966, a significant step in making semiconductor components more accessible and durable. Historical Significance: The Lock-Fit transistor was developed as part of a collaborative effort between Philips and Mullard Ltd. (a British semiconductor company) in the early 1960s. Officially launched in 1966, these transistors were designed to offer a more rugged, easy-to-handle alternative to the widely used TO18 package (the small metal cans traditionally used for transistors). The Lock-Fit series was intended to provide improved durability and ease of use, but it faced competition from the newly introduced TO92 plastic encapsulated transistors—a packaging format that quickly gained widespread adoption due to its simplicity and lower cost. Despite not achieving universal success in terms of market penetration, the Lock-Fit transistor played a key role in the development of more modern packaging technologies that we still use today in countless consumer electronics, including personal computers, radios, and early home appliances. This transistor keychain is a piece of technology history, commemorating a time when the semiconductor industry was still in its infancy but already making waves that would shape the future of electronics. Key Features:Vintage Philips Semiconductor Lock-Fit TransistorAcrylic keychain featuring a BC Series NPN transistorReleased in 1966 as part of Philips’ promotional effortsRepresents a significant milestone in transistor packaging technologyA limited collectible for vintage tech enthusiasts and electronics historiansMade in collaboration with Mullard Ltd. (UK), a key player in early semiconductor development Technology Background: The Lock-Fit transistor was designed to be more rugged than traditional metal cans, with a plastic housing that offered better resistance to physical damage. Although it was not as universally adopted as its TO92 counterpart, it paved the way for modern transistor packages that are now ubiquitous in electronic devices. In the 1960s, Philips and Mullard were at the forefront of semiconductor innovation. This keychain captures a snapshot of a critical time in the industry when companies like Philips were moving away from vacuum tubes to solid-state electronics, which would eventually lead to the personal computer revolution, mobile phones, and the entire digital age we live in today. Perfect for Collectors:A must-have for vintage semiconductor enthusiasts or anyone with an interest in the early days of electronicsA unique conversation piece or addition to any collection of vintage electronics or promotional itemsIdeal for those fascinated by the technological advancements of the 1960s and the rise of modern computing Don't miss the chance to own this piece of electronics history—grab this rare Philips Semiconductor Lock-Fit Transistor Keychain today! ChipsEtc.com Item #1006 Condition: Pre-owned, clear lucite with yellow tint, nice Condition About uswere ChipsEtc.com: A Leader in Vintage Technology Collectibles for over 25 Years! Discover rare promotional items featuring authentic computer chips, early transistors, vacuum tubes, and more. Each collectible tells a story of innovation, celebrating the milestones of electronics and semiconductory history worldwide. Explore our extensive collection and relive the journey of technology!

Price: 40 USD

Location: Maricopa, Arizona

End Time: 2025-01-01T20:37:25.000Z

Shipping Cost: N/A USD