onsemi BC182_D26Z

Overview

BC182_D26Z from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose bipolar junction transistor (BJT) designed for low-power amplification and switching up to 100 mA collector current. It features V_CEO = 50 V, V_CBO = 60 V, h_FE = 40–500 (at IC = 10 µA to 100 mA), f_T = 150 MHz, and TO-92 package. It is commonly used in audio preamplifier stages and signal conditioning circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC182_D26Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its DC current gain range across operating currents, saturation voltage at 100 mA, thermal resistance (R_θJA = 357 °C/W), noise figure (10 dB @ 0.2 mA), and compatibility with through-hole PCB layouts using standard TO-92 footprints.

Technical Context

The BC182_D26Z operates as a silicon NPN BJT with epitaxial planar construction, optimized for linear amplification and moderate-speed switching. Its h_FE varies significantly with collector current-40 at 10 µA, 120 at 2 mA, and 80 at 100 mA-indicating intentional biasing flexibility across small-signal and medium-current regimes.

Dynamic performance is defined by f_T = 150 MHz under V_CE = 5 V, I_C = 10 mA, and Cob = 5 pF at V_CE = 10 V, supporting RF amplifier use up to ~50 MHz with proper matching. V_BE(sat) = 1.2 V and V_CE(sat) = 0.6 V at I_C = 100 mA / I_B = 5 mA confirm suitability for saturated-switch applications with modest drive requirements.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC182_D26Z is housed in a standard through-hole TO-92 package (3-lead, epoxy molded). Lead identification: Pin 1 = Emitter, Pin 2 = Collector, Pin 3 = Base - verified per Fairchild's BC182L mechanical drawing and device marking convention.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN general-purpose amplifier applications.

Compared with BC547B and 2N3904, BC182_D26Z offers broader h_FE variability and superior voltage rating-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, mixed-bias analog systems where design margin and part reuse across operating points are valued over tight parametric control.

Availability

BC182_D26Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifier stages, low-speed switch drivers, and RF oscillator cores requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence management, and traceable sourcing for legacy repair and industrial maintenance programs.

Supply support for BC182_D26Z 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 BC182_D26Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose BJT family, engineered for broad utility in linear amplification, switching, and biasing functions across consumer, industrial, and communications equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector current rating for BC182_D26Z?

The BC182_D26Z has a continuous collector current rating of 100 mA at T_A = 25°C. Derating applies above this temperature per PD = 350 mW and thermal resistance R_θJA = 357 °C/W. Exceeding 100 mA risks thermal runaway or permanent degradation unless heatsinking or pulsed operation is implemented. Always verify actual I_C in circuit simulation or prototype testing before finalizing BC182_D26Z usage.

Is BC182_D26Z pin-compatible with BC547 or 2N3904?

Yes, BC182_D26Z shares the same TO-92 package and pinout (Emitter–Collector–Base) as BC547 and 2N3904. However, electrical differences-including V_CEO, h_FE range, and f_T-mean direct substitution requires validation of gain, voltage margin, and frequency response in the target circuit. BC182_D26Z should not be assumed drop-in without functional verification.

What is the typical noise figure of BC182_D26Z and under what conditions is it measured?

The BC182_D26Z has a noise figure of 10 dB, measured at V_CE = 5 V, I_C = 0.2 mA, R_S = 2 kΩ, f = 1 kHz, and BW = 200 Hz. This value reflects its suitability for low-noise preamplification tasks. Noise performance degrades at higher currents or frequencies; for critical low-noise designs, always consult the full noise spectral density curve in the original Fairchild BC182L datasheet before committing BC182_D26Z.

Does BC182_D26Z support RF applications, and up to what frequency?

Yes, BC182_D26Z supports RF applications up to approximately 50 MHz due to its f_T = 150 MHz and Cob = 5 pF. It has been used successfully in Colpitts oscillators and tuned amplifier stages within that band. Performance beyond 50 MHz requires careful layout, neutralization, and impedance matching-designers should validate gain and stability margins empirically, as BC182_D26Z is not characterized for broadband RF linearity or S-parameters.

What is the storage and junction temperature range for BC182_D26Z?

The BC182_D26Z has a specified storage and junction temperature range of –55°C to +150°C. Operation outside this range may cause irreversible damage or parametric shift. For reliable long-term use, keep junction temperature below 150°C using appropriate derating-e.g., reduce power dissipation by 2.8 mW/°C above 25°C ambient. Thermal modeling is recommended before deploying BC182_D26Z in sealed enclosures or high-ambient environments.