SMALL BEAR: Germanium Transistor Test Method

Given I listed the RG Keen method, I thought I should add the Small Bear method as well.  It's a simpler test that some people prefer, and it's generally considered not as accurate as the RG Keen method but close enough for most purposes.

NOTE:

• Be prepared to see the voltage fluctuate a lot while the transistor stabilises.  Don’t wait too long though, as you will be there forever - it may never stop!  

• Handle the transistor as little as possible with your fingers, as the heat will transfer

• Different environments will provide different results - this is very temperature dependant 

• With all methods, the test results will vary, depending on the method used.  Why?  Without attempting to explain the math that I don't fully understand, hFE varies with the current applied to the base.  Different test methods and test equipment apply different currents, so results will differ.