onsemi BC183LC

Overview

BC183LC from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose amplifier transistor in TO-92 package, rated for 30 V V_CEO, 100 mA I_C, 350 mW P_C, with h_FE = 40–80 at I_C = 100 mA, and f_T = 150 MHz - used in low-voltage audio preamplification and signal switching circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC183LC datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its DC current gain range, saturation voltage performance at 100 mA, thermal limits in ambient operation, and compatibility with through-hole PCB layouts requiring TO-92 footprint.

Technical Context

The BC183LC operates as a silicon NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for linear amplification and switching in low-power analog and digital interface stages. Its design supports stable h_FE across collector currents from 10 μA to 100 mA and maintains V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.6 V at I_C = 100 mA / I_B = 5 mA.

It features low noise figure (NF = 10 dB at I_C = 200 mA), small-signal h_fe = 125–900 at 1 kHz, and output capacitance C_OB = 5 pF at V_CE = 10 V - enabling use in RF-coupled preamp stages up to ~100 MHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC183LC is housed in a standard TO-92 plastic package with 3 leads: Collector (lead 1), Base (lead 2), Emitter (lead 3), compatible with manual soldering and wave-solder processes.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BC183LC, BC547C offers higher gain and power margin but less standardized industrial heritage; 2N3904 delivers superior speed and broader h_FE spread, making it more flexible in modern low-voltage designs but less predictable in legacy gain-critical circuits.

Availability

BC183LC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio pre-amplification, discrete signal switching, and DC current monitoring applications requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for BC183LC 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 BC183LC belongs to Fairchild's legacy "General Purpose Transistor" product line, designed for cost-sensitive, medium-performance analog and switching functions in consumer, industrial, and automotive auxiliary systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC183LC?

The BC183LC has a maximum collector-emitter voltage (V_CEO) rating of 30 V at T_C = 25°C. This value decreases with rising junction temperature and must be derated per the datasheet's thermal curves. Exceeding 30 V risks avalanche breakdown and permanent device failure. The BC183LC is not rated for use in 48 V or higher supply rails without additional clamping or voltage division.

Does BC183LC support switching applications at 100 mA collector current?

Yes, BC183LC supports switching at 100 mA I_C, with V_CE(sat) = 0.6 V at I_B = 5 mA. Its TO-92 package dissipates up to 350 mW at 25°C ambient, allowing reliable pulsed or continuous operation if board layout provides adequate copper area and airflow. Thermal derating is required above 25°C ambient.

What is the typical noise figure of BC183LC and under what conditions is it measured?

The BC183LC has a typical noise figure (NF) of 10 dB, measured at V_CE = 5 V, I_C = 200 mA, R_G = 2 kΩ, and f = 1 kHz. This value reflects its suitability for low-noise pre-amplification of audio and sensor signals, though actual NF increases at lower collector currents and higher frequencies.

Is BC183LC pin-compatible with BC547 or 2N3904?

No, BC183LC is not pin-compatible with BC547 or 2N3904. While all three use TO-92 packages, their pinouts differ: BC183LC is C-B-E (lead 1–2–3), BC547 is E-B-C, and 2N3904 is E-B-C. Swapping them without PCB modification will cause circuit malfunction. Always verify pin assignments before substitution.

What is the guaranteed h_FE range for BC183LC at 100 mA collector current?

The BC183LC guarantees h_FE between 40 and 80 when tested at V_CE = 5 V and I_C = 100 mA. This range reflects production binning and ensures predictable DC biasing in amplifier and switch designs. For higher gain requirements, Fairchild's BC183LA (h_FE = 70–140) or BC183LB (h_FE = 110–220) variants are available.