onsemi BC183LC_J35Z

Overview

BC183LC_J35Z from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose bipolar junction transistor used for low-power amplification and switching in analog and digital circuits, with V_CEO = 30 V, I_C = 100 mA, P_C = 350 mW, h_FE = 40–80 at I_C = 100 mA, and f_T = 150 MHz - deployed in audio preamplifiers, signal conditioning stages, and discrete logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC183LC_J35Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include DC current gain linearity across 10 μA–100 mA, low V_CE(sat) (0.25 V @ 10 mA/0.5 mA), noise figure of 10 dB at 1 kHz, TO-92 mechanical compatibility, and thermal stability over −55°C to +150°C junction range.

Technical Context

The BC183LC_J35Z operates as a silicon NPN BJT optimized for linear amplification and saturated switching, featuring a base-emitter on voltage of 0.55–0.7 V at I_C = 2 mA and V_CE = 5 V, and a collector-emitter saturation voltage as low as 0.25 V under light drive conditions. Its small-signal current gain (h_fe) ranges from 125 to 900 at I_C = 2 mA and f = 1 kHz, supporting wideband small-signal amplification.

It exhibits low output capacitance (C_OB = 5 pF at V_CE = 10 V, f = 1 MHz) and a current-gain bandwidth product of 150 MHz, enabling stable operation up to mid-VHF frequencies. Cutoff currents are tightly specified: I_CBO ≤ 15 nA at V_CB = 30 V and I_EBO ≤ 15 nA at V_EB = 4.0 V, ensuring low leakage in bias-sensitive designs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC183LC_J35Z is housed in a standard through-hole TO-92 package with 3 leads: Collector (Lead 1), Base (Lead 2), Emitter (Lead 3). The package provides mechanical robustness, low thermal resistance (R_θJA ≈ 350°C/W), and compatibility with legacy PCB layouts and manual assembly processes.

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, BC183LC_J35Z offers a balanced trade-off of gain consistency across current range, low saturation voltage at moderate loads, and proven thermal reliability in long-lifecycle industrial assemblies - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, medium-bandwidth analog and interface functions where parameter spread must be tightly bounded.

Availability

BC183LC_J35Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifier design, discrete logic level translation, and low-current LED driving requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for BC183LC_J35Z 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_J35Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose bipolar transistor family, engineered for reliability in consumer, industrial, and automotive auxiliary circuits where consistent DC parameters and thermal resilience are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC183LC_J35Z?

The BC183LC_J35Z has a maximum collector-emitter voltage (V_CEO) rating of 30 V at T_C = 25°C. This value is tested with I_C = 2 mA and defines the absolute upper limit for safe operation in common-emitter configurations. Exceeding this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent device failure, especially at elevated temperatures where derating is required.

Does BC183LC_J35Z support linear amplification at audio frequencies?

Yes, BC183LC_J35Z supports linear amplification up to at least 20 kHz due to its f_T of 150 MHz and low noise figure of 10 dB at 1 kHz. When biased in the active region with appropriate emitter degeneration and supply decoupling, it delivers stable voltage gain with minimal harmonic distortion in microphone preamp and sensor signal conditioning circuits.

What is the pin configuration of BC183LC_J35Z in the TO-92 package?

The BC183LC_J35Z uses the standard TO-92 pinout: Lead 1 is Collector, Lead 2 is Base, and Lead 3 is Emitter - verified from Fairchild's BC183 Rev. A datasheet and confirmed across authorized distributor footprint diagrams. This matches industry-standard NPN TO-92 orientation when viewing the flat side with leads downward.

Can BC183LC_J35Z replace BC547 in existing designs?

BC183LC_J35Z is not a direct drop-in replacement for BC547 due to differences in h_FE range (BC183: 40–80 vs. BC547B: 200–450) and V_CEO (30 V vs. 45 V). While pinout and package match, base drive requirements and gain-dependent bias stability differ significantly - redesign of base resistors and verification of saturation margins are required before substitution.

What is the thermal resistance and junction temperature limit of BC183LC_J35Z?

The BC183LC_J35Z has a maximum junction temperature (T_J) of +150°C and a storage temperature range of −55°C to +150°C. Its typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (R_θJA) is approximately 350°C/W in free-air conditions. For reliable operation above 25°C ambient, derating of P_C (350 mW) by 2.8 mW/°C is required per Fairchild's absolute maximum ratings table.