onsemi 2N5772

Overview

2N5772 from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN silicon switching transistor in TO-92 package, rated for 15 V V_CEO, 300 mA I_C, and 350 mW P_D, with typical h_FE = 30–120 at I_C = 30–300 mA, used in low-power digital switching and signal amplification circuits.

For engineers reviewing the 2N5772 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection factors include its V_CEO/V_CBO voltage ratings, saturation voltage performance at multiple drive conditions, thermal resistance (R_θJA = 357 °C/W), and verified switching times (t_on = 18 ns, t_off = 28 ns).

Technical Context

The 2N5772 is a general-purpose NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for fast switching in low-voltage, medium-current applications. It features low V_CE(sat) (0.2 V @ I_C = 30 mA, I_B = 3 mA) and tight V_BE(sat) spread (0.73–1.7 V across operating range), supporting reliable logic-level interfacing.

Its small-signal h_fe = 3.5 at f = 100 MHz and low junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (357 °C/W) enable stable operation in compact PCB layouts without forced cooling, while C_cb = 5.0 pF and C_eb = 8.0 pF support predictable high-frequency behavior in discrete amplifier or pulse-shaping stages.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

2N5772 uses the standard TO-92 plastic package (3.60 × 4.58 × 4.58 mm max), with leads arranged in straight-line configuration: Pin 1 = Emitter, Pin 2 = Base, Pin 3 = Collector.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN switching transistor applications.

Compared with BC547B and MPS2222A, the 2N5772 offers a balanced trade-off of moderate voltage headroom (15 V), proven 300 mA switching capability, and fast transient response-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained digital interface and LED driver designs where exact gain matching is secondary to robust saturation behavior.

Availability

2N5772 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED driver circuits, microcontroller interface switching, and low-power audio preamp stages requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for 2N5772 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 manufacturer specializing in power management, analog, and discrete components before its acquisition by ON Semiconductor in 2016.

The 2N5772 belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose bipolar transistor product line, designed specifically for cost-effective, high-yield switching and amplification in consumer, industrial, and automotive auxiliary circuits.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for the 2N5772?

The 2N5772 has a maximum continuous collector current (I_C) rating of 300 mA at T_A = 25°C. This rating assumes proper PCB thermal relief and derating per the 2.8 mW/°C thermal coefficient above ambient. Exceeding this current without sufficient heatsinking risks junction overheating and permanent degradation of the 2N5772.

Does the 2N5772 support switching at frequencies above 1 MHz?

Yes, the 2N5772 supports switching at frequencies up to approximately 10 MHz, based on its measured t_on = 18 ns and t_off = 28 ns. Its small-signal h_fe = 3.5 at 100 MHz and low junction capacitances (C_cb = 5.0 pF, C_eb = 8.0 pF) confirm usable bandwidth well into the VHF range, though practical digital switching is typically limited by drive strength and layout parasitics-not the 2N5772 itself.

What is the pin configuration of the 2N5772 in TO-92 package?

The 2N5772 uses standard TO-92 pinout: Pin 1 = Emitter, Pin 2 = Base, Pin 3 = Collector, with leads viewed from the flat side of the package and leads pointing downward. This configuration is consistent across Fairchild's 2N-series transistors and matches JEDEC TO-92 mechanical drawings, ensuring compatibility with automated assembly tooling and hand-soldering jigs used for the 2N5772.

Can the 2N5772 be used in linear amplification applications?

Yes, the 2N5772 can operate in the active region for small-signal amplification, as confirmed by its h_fe = 3.5 at I_C = 300 mA, V_CE = 10 V, and f = 100 MHz. However, its primary design focus is switching, so gain consistency and noise performance are less optimized than dedicated RF or audio transistors. For linear use, biasing must respect V_CEO ≤ 15 V and P_D ≤ 350 mW limits to avoid thermal runaway in the 2N5772.

What is the storage temperature range for the 2N5772?

The 2N5772 has a specified storage temperature range of –55°C to +150°C, matching its operating junction temperature range. This wide span allows the 2N5772 to withstand reflow soldering profiles, extended warehouse storage in uncontrolled environments, and deployment in automotive under-hood or industrial outdoor enclosures without parametric shift or mechanical stress-induced failure.