onsemi 2N5401_J05Z

Overview

2N5401_J05Z from Fairchild Semiconductor is a PNP epitaxial silicon small-signal transistor rated for -150 V V_CEO, -600 mA I_C, 625 mW P_C, with h_FE = 30–240 at I_C = -1 to -50 mA, and f_T = 100–400 MHz - used in high-voltage amplifier and switching stages of discrete analog power management circuits.

For engineers reviewing the 2N5401_J05Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include verified PNP breakdown voltage margin, saturation voltage under defined drive conditions, noise figure at audio frequencies, junction temperature limit, and TO-92 mechanical compatibility.

Technical Context

This PNP bipolar junction transistor operates in active, saturation, and cutoff regions with guaranteed DC current gain across three collector current levels (-1 mA, -10 mA, -50 mA) at fixed V_CE = -5 V. Its 100–400 MHz f_T supports RF amplification up to low-VHF, while low Cob = 6 pF at V_CB = -10 V enables stable high-frequency biasing.

Breakdown ratings are strictly defined: BVCBO = -160 V (I_C = -100 µA), BVCEO = -150 V (I_C = -1 mA), and BVEBO = -5 V (I_E = -10 µA). Cutoff currents ICBO and IEBO are specified at -50 nA, confirming low leakage in high-impedance bias networks.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

2N5401_J05Z is housed in a standard TO-92 plastic package with lead-to-lead dimensions per Fairchild Rev. B drawing: 4.58 mm body width, 3.60 mm body thickness, 14.47 mm overall length, and 2.54 mm lead pitch. Pin identification follows E-B-C order (Emitter–Base–Collector) when viewed with flat side facing user and leads downward.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP small-signal transistor applications.

Compared with MPSA92 and BC557B, the 2N5401_J05Z uniquely balances -150 V capability, 400 MHz f_T, and 625 mW dissipation - making it the preferred choice for medium-voltage, medium-frequency discrete amplifier and switch designs where both breakdown safety and bandwidth matter.

Availability

2N5401_J05Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-voltage amplifier stages, discrete switching regulator drivers, and legacy TTL-compatible inverter circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation.

Supply support for 2N5401_J05Z includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Fairchild Semiconductor was a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in power management, analog, and discrete components before its acquisition by ON Semiconductor in 2016.

The 2N5401_J05Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose PNP transistor product line, designed for robust, cost-effective discrete amplification and switching in industrial, audio, and power-conversion applications.

FAQ

What is the pin configuration of the 2N5401_J05Z?

The 2N5401_J05Z uses a TO-92 package with Emitter–Base–Collector pinout (left-to-right when flat side faces user and leads point down). Pin 1 is Emitter, Pin 2 is Base, Pin 3 is Collector. This matches JEDEC TO-92 standard orientation and is confirmed in Fairchild's Rev. B datasheet mechanical drawing.

Does the 2N5401_J05Z support linear amplification at audio frequencies?

Yes, the 2N5401_J05Z supports linear amplification up to 15.7 kHz with a measured noise figure of 8 dB at I_C = -250 µA and V_CE = -5 V. Its h_FE stability across bias points and low C_ob = 6 pF make it suitable for microphone preamps and line drivers in audio signal chains.

What is the maximum safe operating temperature for the 2N5401_J05Z?

The 2N5401_J05Z has a maximum junction temperature (T_J) of 150°C and storage temperature range of -55°C to +150°C. Derating begins above 25°C ambient; at 70°C ambient, maximum allowable P_C drops to approximately 375 mW based on θ_JA ≈ 200°C/W.

Can the 2N5401_J05Z replace an NPN transistor like the 2N2222?

No - the 2N5401_J05Z is a PNP device and cannot directly replace an NPN transistor such as the 2N2222 without circuit topology changes. Polarity reversal, bias network redesign, and signal inversion must be accounted for; it is functionally complementary, not substitutable.

Is the 2N5401_J05Z RoHS compliant?

The 2N5401_J05Z was manufactured prior to full RoHS enforcement and predates mandatory lead-free requirements. It contains leaded solder terminals and is not RoHS-compliant per EU Directive 2011/65/EU; however, it remains available for legacy repair and industrial maintenance where exemptions apply.