onsemi BC182_ND74Z

Overview

BC182_ND74Z from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose bipolar junction transistor (BJT) designed for low-to-medium current amplification and switching up to 100 mA. 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, signal buffering, and discrete logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC182_ND74Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include DC current gain variation across operating current, saturation voltage at drive conditions, thermal derating above 25°C, and compatibility with through-hole PCB layouts requiring TO-92 footprint.

Technical Context

The BC182_ND74Z operates as a silicon NPN BJT with planar epitaxial construction (Fairchild Process 10). Its h_FE spans 40–500 depending on collector current (10 µA to 100 mA), and it delivers V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.6 V at IC = 100 mA / IB = 5 mA. Thermal resistance R_θJA is 357°C/W, limiting continuous power dissipation to 350 mW at 25°C ambient.

Dynamic performance includes f_T = 150 MHz under V_CE = 5 V, I_C = 10 mA, and C_ob = 5 pF at V_CE = 10 V. Noise figure is 10 dB at I_C = 0.2 mA, R_S = 2 kΩ, 1 kHz - confirming suitability for low-noise small-signal amplification.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC182_ND74Z is housed in a standard through-hole TO-92 package (3-lead, epoxy molded, vertical mounting). Lead spacing matches JEDEC TO-92 outline: 1.27 mm pitch between pins, 3.60 mm body width, 4.58 mm height.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BC182_ND74Z, BC547B offers superior gain uniformity at low currents but reduced voltage margin, while 2N3904 provides higher speed and current handling with tighter parametric spread - making it preferable for volume production where test yield and sourcing resilience matter.

Availability

BC182_ND74Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio signal conditioning, discrete logic interfacing, and low-power motor control applications requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for BC182_ND74Z 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 BC182_ND74Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose BJT family, engineered for cost-sensitive, reliability-focused analog and interface circuits in industrial, consumer, and educational equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC182_ND74Z?

The BC182_ND74Z has a maximum collector-emitter voltage (V_CEO) rating of 50 V at T_C = 25°C. This rating decreases with increasing junction temperature and must be derated per thermal conditions in actual layout. Exceeding this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent device failure. Always verify operating V_CE under worst-case load and transient conditions in the final BC182_ND74Z circuit design.

Does BC182_ND74Z support high-frequency amplification?

Yes, BC182_ND74Z supports high-frequency amplification with a current gain bandwidth product (f_T) of 150 MHz under standard test conditions (V_CE = 5 V, I_C = 10 mA). In practice, usable small-signal gain extends reliably to ~15–20 MHz. For higher-frequency operation, layout parasitics and bias stability become critical - always validate performance with BC182_ND74Z in the target PCB environment.

What is the typical DC current gain (h_FE) range for BC182_ND74Z?

The BC182_ND74Z exhibits a DC current gain (h_FE) ranging from 40 (minimum at I_C = 10 µA) to 500 (maximum at I_C = 100 mA), with a typical value of 120 at I_C = 2 mA. This wide spread reflects process variation and operating point dependency - designs relying on precise gain should include emitter degeneration or feedback to stabilize the BC182_ND74Z Q-point.

Can BC182_ND74Z be used as a saturated switch?

Yes, BC182_ND74Z is routinely used as a saturated switch, with V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.6 V at I_C = 100 mA and I_B = 5 mA. To ensure saturation, apply sufficient base drive (I_B ≥ I_C/10) and verify V_CE remains below 0.3 V in-circuit. Thermal limits (350 mW @ 25°C) must also be respected - derate power dissipation linearly above ambient in BC182_ND74Z switching applications.

What package type does BC182_ND74Z use?

BC182_ND74Z uses the industry-standard TO-92 plastic package with three leads arranged in straight-line configuration (Collector–Base–Emitter). Dimensions conform to JEDEC TO-92 outline: 1.27 mm lead pitch, 3.60 mm body width, and 4.58 mm height. This through-hole package supports manual soldering, wave soldering, and legacy automated insertion processes compatible with BC182_ND74Z.