onsemi BC182L_D74Z

Overview

BC182L_D74Z from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose bipolar junction transistor (BJT) designed for low-power amplification and switching at collector currents up to 100 mA. 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 - used in audio preamplifiers, signal buffering, and discrete logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC182L_D74Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include DC current gain spread across operating current, V_CE(sat) at 100 mA, thermal resistance (R_θJA = 357 °C/W), noise figure (NF = 10 dB @ 0.2 mA), and TO-92 mechanical compatibility.

Technical Context

The BC182L_D74Z operates as a silicon NPN BJT with epitaxial planar construction, optimized for linear amplification and saturated switching. Its h_FE varies significantly with I_C (40 at 10 µA, 120 at 2 mA, 80–500 at 100 mA), indicating strong current-dependent gain behavior suited for bias-stable amplifier stages.

It exhibits low output capacitance (C_ob = 5 pF @ V_CE = 10 V), high f_T (150 MHz), and moderate V_BE(on) (0.55–0.7 V), supporting RF-capable small-signal amplification up to mid-VHF while maintaining predictable saturation characteristics (V_CE(sat) = 0.25 V @ 10 mA/0.5 mA).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC182L_D74Z is housed in a standard TO-92 plastic package with 3 leads: Emitter (pin 1), Collector (pin 2), Base (pin 3), as confirmed by Fairchild's official package drawing and pin identification diagram.

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_D74Z offers broader h_FE tolerance and verified 100 mA capability - making it more suitable for cost-sensitive, non-critical switching and medium-gain amplification where parameter spread is acceptable.

Availability

BC182L_D74Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifiers, discrete logic level shifters, and low-power LED drivers requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for BC182L_D74Z 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_D74Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose BJT product line, engineered for cost-effective, robust amplification and switching in consumer, industrial, and educational electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for BC182L_D74Z?

The BC182L_D74Z has a maximum continuous collector current (I_C) rating of 100 mA at T_A = 25°C, as specified in Fairchild's official datasheet. Derating applies above 25°C per the 2.8 mW/°C thermal coefficient. Exceeding this limit risks thermal runaway or permanent degradation of h_FE and V_CE(sat) in the BC182L_D74Z.

Does BC182L_D74Z have a documented noise figure specification?

Yes, BC182L_D74Z specifies a noise figure (NF) of 10 dB under test conditions of V_CE = 5 V, I_C = 0.2 mA, R_S = 2 kΩ, f = 1 kHz, and BW = 200 Hz. This value is measured and published in the original Fairchild datasheet, confirming its suitability for low-noise small-signal amplification tasks involving the BC182L_D74Z.

Is BC182L_D74Z pin-compatible with BC547 or 2N3904?

BC182L_D74Z uses the standard TO-92 package with Emitter–Collector–Base pinout (1–2–3), matching BC547 and 2N3904. However, Fairchild does not declare BC182L_D74Z as a drop-in replacement; functional equivalence depends on circuit requirements. Always verify h_FE, V_CE(sat), and thermal limits before substituting BC182L_D74Z in existing BC547 or 2N3904 designs.

What is the thermal resistance junction-to-ambient (R_θJA) for BC182L_D74Z?

The BC182L_D74Z has a specified R_θJA of 357 °C/W in free-air conditions, per Fairchild's thermal characterization data. This value assumes standard TO-92 mounting on non-PCB surfaces; PCB copper area reduces effective R_θJA. Designers must use this R_θJA to calculate maximum allowable power dissipation at target ambient temperatures for reliable BC182L_D74Z operation.

Can BC182L_D74Z be used in RF amplifier stages?

Yes, BC182L_D74Z supports RF amplifier use up to ~50 MHz due to its 150 MHz f_T and low 5 pF C_ob. It is documented for small-signal amplification in VHF receiver front ends and local oscillator buffer stages. Performance depends on proper biasing, impedance matching, and layout - the BC182L_D74Z is not intended for power RF but validated for low-power signal amplification.