# Drive 12v solenoid from Raspberry Pi using transistor

I'm looking to drive a 12v solenoid from a Raspberry Pi's GPIO. I have been looking at using a S8050 Transistor, however have been looking at the datasheet and have been struggling to determine whether it is suitable or not.

The $$\ V_{cbo} \$$ and $$\ V_{ceo} \$$ are both comfortably over the 12V required for the solenoid, however the $$\ V_{ebo} \$$ is 5V.

I apologise, I'm still quite new to the specifics of transistors, I'm aware of how to use them (I think!) but I'm not confident with specifying them, and assessing whether they are fit for purpose. Would anyone mind perhaps explaining whether or not this transistor would be suitable to drive this solenoid and why, and what I should be looking for when specifying a transistor please?

I have attached an image of my simplified circuit diagram below.

The solenoid is rated at 12v, 0.6A, similar to the one listed here: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/193480469509 I apologise for the use of an eBay link in this case, however I am struggling to find any useful proper datasheet matching this item.

• a darlington (or two of the above) would be better; the PI's GPIO current is pretty weak. – dandavis Feb 9 at 19:51