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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/eng-silicon-beats-germanium

Why did silicon replace germanium as the main transistor material?

Silicon works over a much wider temperature range.

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  1. Silicon conducts better than copper
  2. Silicon works at much higher temperatures ✔
  3. Germanium is radioactive

Why: Germanium transistors were limited to about 0 to 70 degrees C. Silicon devices could run from minus 55 to 125 degrees C, and leaked less current when off.

Huh, didn't know that: Texas Instruments built and marketed the first commercial silicon transistors in 1954.

The dad joke
Germanium couldn't take the heat, so it got out of the valley.
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References

Answer: Silicon works at much higher temperatures. Germanium transistors were limited to about 0 to 70 degrees C. Silicon devices could run from minus 55 to 125 degrees C, and leaked less current when off.

  1. Computer History Museum, 1954: Silicon Transistors Offer Superior Operating Characteristics www.computerhistory.org/siliconengine/silicon-transistors-offer-superior-operating-characteristics
    Silicon devices that function from -55 to 125 C became possible.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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