onsemi BC182L_D27Z

Overview

BC182L_D27Z 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, h_FE = 40–500 (at I_C = 10 µA to 100 mA), f_T = 150 MHz, and TO-92 package - commonly used in audio preamplifiers, signal buffering, and discrete logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC182L_D27Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its DC current gain range across operating currents, V_CE(sat) at I_C = 100 mA / I_B = 5 mA, thermal resistance (R_θJA = 357 °C/W), noise figure (NF = 10 dB at 1 kHz), and compatibility with through-hole prototyping and legacy consumer electronics designs.

Technical Context

The BC182L_D27Z operates as a silicon NPN BJT with base-controlled current amplification. Its h_FE varies significantly with collector current - from min. 40 at I_C = 10 µA to min. 80 at I_C = 100 mA - indicating intentional design for both small-signal amplification and moderate-current switching. The device exhibits V_BE(on) = 0.55–0.7 V and V_BE(sat) = 1.2 V, supporting predictable biasing in Class-A amplifier stages and saturated-switch configurations.

Thermal performance is defined by R_θJA = 357 °C/W and P_D = 350 mW at T_A = 25°C, with linear derating above that temperature. Its Cob = 5 pF and f_T = 150 MHz confirm suitability for audio-frequency and low-MHz RF applications where parasitic capacitance must remain low without integrated compensation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC182L_D27Z is housed in a standard through-hole TO-92 package (3-lead, epoxy molded). Lead configuration is Emitter (Pin 1), Collector (Pin 2), Base (Pin 3), with pin 1 identified by flat side and notch orientation per JEDEC TO-92 outline.

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, BC182L_D27Z offers uniquely specified noise figure (10 dB) and verified h_FE behavior across three decades of collector current - making it preferred for cost-sensitive, low-noise analog front-ends where gain predictability at microamp bias matters.

Availability

BC182L_D27Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifiers, discrete logic level shifters, and low-current LED drivers requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for BC182L_D27Z 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 BC182L_D27Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose BJT product line, engineered for cost-effective, robust amplification and switching in consumer, industrial, and educational electronics where TO-92 compatibility and verified analog performance are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector current rating for BC182L_D27Z?

The BC182L_D27Z has a continuous collector current rating of 100 mA at T_A = 25°C. This value decreases with rising ambient temperature due to its 2.8 mW/°C derating factor. Exceeding 100 mA risks thermal runaway or permanent degradation, especially without heatsinking or airflow. Always verify I_C under worst-case operating conditions in the final circuit layout before committing to BC182L_D27Z.

Does BC182L_D27Z have a specified noise figure, and how is it measured?

Yes, BC182L_D27Z specifies 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 performance in low-level analog signal amplification, such as microphone preamplifiers. The BC182L_D27Z datasheet explicitly lists this parameter - unlike many general-purpose BJTs - making it verifiable for noise-critical designs where BC182L_D27Z is selected.

What is the pin configuration of BC182L_D27Z in the TO-92 package?

The BC182L_D27Z uses the standard TO-92 pinout: Pin 1 is Emitter, Pin 2 is Collector, and Pin 3 is Base - with the flat side of the package facing the viewer and leads downward. This matches JEDEC TO-92 outline and is identical to BC547, 2N3904, and PN2222A. Confirm orientation using the datasheet mechanical drawing before soldering, as BC182L_D27Z relies on correct lead assignment for functional biasing.

Can BC182L_D27Z be used as a direct replacement for BC547 in existing designs?

BC182L_D27Z shares the same TO-92 package and pinout as BC547, but h_FE distribution differs: BC182L_D27Z specifies min. 40 at I_C = 10 µA and min. 80 at I_C = 100 mA, while BC547B guarantees 200–450. Circuit functionality may be preserved in switching applications, but analog gain stages may require bias adjustment. Verify performance across temperature and supply variation before substituting BC182L_D27Z for BC547 in production.

What is the thermal resistance junction-to-ambient (R_θJA) for BC182L_D27Z?

The BC182L_D27Z has a specified R_θJA of 357 °C/W under natural convection on FR-4 board per standard JEDEC test conditions. This means each watt of dissipated power raises the junction temperature by 357°C above ambient - so at its rated 350 mW, ΔT_J ≈ 125°C. For reliable operation, keep ambient temperature below 25°C or reduce power; BC182L_D27Z must not exceed 150°C junction temperature per its T_J rating.