# What do $V_{TN}$ and $V_{T}$ stand for in a MOSFET?

What is the meaning and difference between the symbols: $V_{TN}$ and $V_T$ commonly seen when talking about a MOSFET?

I'm guessing $V_{TN}$ is the threshold voltage, but what is $V_T$, and how do they relate to each other?

I'll give examples of equations where these symbols have been used in my course, and the context they were used in.

e.g.1) When looking at the transfer function of MOSFETS, the NMOSFET is said to be in the saturation region if : $$V_{DS} \ge V_{GS}-V_{TN}$$

e.g.2) When looking at the transistor as a switch, a PMOSFET is an open switch (off) if: $$|V_{GS}|>|V_{DD}-|V_{T}||$$ Assuming source $V_S=V_{DD}$

What is the difference between $V_{TN}$ and $V_T$, and why is that last part an assumption? Is it not a given that $V_S=V_{DD}$?

• I think that $V_{TN}$ is the threshold voltage for N-MOS, while $V_T$ refers to a P-MOS. That would be strange, I'd call it $V_{TP}$. Also I believe your second equation is a bit mixed up, are you sure it's ok? – Vladimir Cravero Apr 30 '14 at 13:05
• Thanks, yeah that could be it, I didn't realise the $N$ in $V_{TN}$ meant nmos. So I guess that makes sense. And the second equation is quoted exactly as it is in the lecture slides. It confused me aswell though, it's the reason I asked this question. – JessEE Apr 30 '14 at 13:49
• There is also an equation that says for a transistor modeled as a closed gate (on), it can be treated as a resistance and $|V_{GS}|<|V_{DD}-|V_{T}||$. – JessEE Apr 30 '14 at 13:52
• Vs does not have to be the same as Vdd. Think about a CMOS NOR gate where one PMOS is above another PMOS. Another application would be a PMOS Wilson current mirror. Your main question, I'd have to dig open my books this evening if someone doesn't come up with an answer sooner. I remember having the same confusion when I took my electronics class. – horta Apr 30 '14 at 13:54
• @horta ah yeah thanks, I didn't think about it like that :) Also I think Vladimir is right, and $V_T$ is the threshold voltage for a pmos. This makes the second equation I gave seem strange though... – JessEE Apr 30 '14 at 19:24

• a very complicated way to write the same exact equations, apart $\mu_{p/n}$. – not2qubit Feb 26 '19 at 12:19