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Home > Products > Discrete Semiconductor Products > Transistors > Bipolar (BJT) > Single Bipolar Transistors

onsemi BC184RL1

Name: BC184RL1
Brand: onsemi
SKU: BC184RL1
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: BC184RL1

Manufacturer:: onsemi

Category:: Single Bipolar Transistors

Package:: TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)

Datasheet:: BC184RL1.pdf

Description:: TRANS NPN 30V 0.1A TO-92

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

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Inventory:15,972

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Product details

Overview

BC184RL1 from ON Semiconductor (formerly Motorola) is an NPN silicon small-signal transistor in TO-92 package, rated for V_CEO = 30 V, I_C = 100 mA, P_D = 350 mW at T_A = 25°C, with h_FE = 100–250 at I_C = 2.0 mA and f_T = 140 MHz - widely used in audio preamplifier stages and low-power switching circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC184RL1 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its TO-92 mechanical compatibility, DC current gain range across collector current, saturation voltage performance at I_C/I_B = 10, noise figure of 4.0 dB at 1 kHz, and thermal resistance R_JA = 357°C/W.

Technical Context

The BC184RL1 operates as a general-purpose NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for linear amplification and low-speed switching. Its h_FE varies from 100 (min) at I_C = 10 µA to 130 (max) at I_C = 100 mA, supporting stable biasing across multiple operating points. The device exhibits V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.25 V at I_C = 100 mA / I_B = 5.0 mA and V_BE(sat) ≤ 1.2 V under the same conditions.

Dynamic behavior is characterized by f_T = 140 MHz (typ) at I_C = 10 mA / V_CE = 5.0 V, Cob = 5.0 pF, and Cib = 8.0 pF - enabling use in RF amplifier front-ends up to ~50 MHz. Its noise figure of 4.0 dB at I_C = 0.2 mA makes it suitable for low-noise audio signal conditioning.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_CEO	30 V - maximum safe collector-emitter voltage before breakdown; defines rail headroom in amplifier and switch designs
I_C (continuous)	100 mA - absolute max DC collector current; limits load drive capability in switching applications
h_FE (I_C = 2.0 mA)	100–250 - usable DC current gain range for stable bias design in common-emitter amplifiers
f_T	140 MHz - unity-gain frequency; supports small-signal amplification up to VHF band with adequate gain margin
V_CE(sat)	≤ 0.25 V @ I_C/I_B = 10 - low saturation voltage enables efficient low-power switching with minimal conduction loss
NF	4.0 dB @ 1 kHz - measured noise performance suitable for microphone preamps and analog sensor interfaces
R_JA	357°C/W - thermal resistance from junction to ambient; dictates derating curve for continuous operation above 25°C

Pinout & Package

BC184RL1 uses the TO-92 (Case 29–04, Style 17) plastic package with 3 leads, standardized per EIA-468 and IEC 286–2. Pin 1 is Collector, Pin 2 is Base, Pin 3 is Emitter - verified from Motorola Device Data Figure on page 2–79.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
1	Collector	Main current output terminal; connects to supply rail or load in common-emitter configuration
2	Base	Control input; requires current-limited drive to achieve desired I_C based on h_FE
3	Emitter	Current return path; typically grounded or connected to emitter resistor for bias stability

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Low noise operation	4.0 dB NF at 1 kHz enables clean amplification of weak analog signals like electret mic outputs
High f_T bandwidth	140 MHz typical f_T supports stable gain in VHF receiver IF stages and oscillator circuits
Wide h_FE range	100–250 at I_C = 2.0 mA allows robust bias design across process and temperature variation
TO-92 mechanical standardization	EIAJ RC1008B-compliant footprint ensures compatibility with legacy automated insertion equipment
Radial tape packaging option	RLR suffix indicates radial tape in fan-fold box or reel - optimized for high-volume through-hole assembly

Applications

Audio Preamp Stage	Low-Speed Switch Driver
Use Scenario: Amplifying low-level signals from electret microphones or piezoelectric sensors in portable audio devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN small-signal transistor configured in common-emitter topology for voltage gain and impedance matching. Use Value: 4.0 dB noise figure and h_FE ≥ 100 ensure high signal-to-noise ratio and stable gain without external feedback networks.	Use Scenario: Driving LED indicators, relays, or small solenoids from microcontroller GPIO pins. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power saturated switch controlling current flow between V_CC and load. Use Value: V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.25 V at I_C = 100 mA minimizes power loss and heat generation during on-state operation.
RF Signal Amplifier	Signal Level Shifter
Use Scenario: Boosting intermediate-frequency (IF) signals in AM/FM radio receivers operating below 50 MHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Small-signal amplifier in tuned common-emitter configuration with LC collector load. Use Value: f_T = 140 MHz provides sufficient gain-bandwidth margin for stable amplification with passive filtering.	Use Scenario: Translating logic-level signals between 3.3 V and 5 V domains in mixed-voltage embedded systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Active level translator using emitter-follower or common-emitter inversion with pull-up resistors. Use Value: V_CEO = 30 V and I_C = 100 mA support reliable operation across industrial and consumer voltage rails.

Audio Preamp Stage

Low-Speed Switch Driver

Use Scenario: Amplifying low-level signals from electret microphones or piezoelectric sensors in portable audio devices.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN small-signal transistor configured in common-emitter topology for voltage gain and impedance matching.

Use Value: 4.0 dB noise figure and h_FE ≥ 100 ensure high signal-to-noise ratio and stable gain without external feedback networks.

Use Scenario: Driving LED indicators, relays, or small solenoids from microcontroller GPIO pins.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power saturated switch controlling current flow between V_CC and load.

Use Value: V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.25 V at I_C = 100 mA minimizes power loss and heat generation during on-state operation.

RF Signal Amplifier

Signal Level Shifter

Use Scenario: Boosting intermediate-frequency (IF) signals in AM/FM radio receivers operating below 50 MHz.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Small-signal amplifier in tuned common-emitter configuration with LC collector load.

Use Value: f_T = 140 MHz provides sufficient gain-bandwidth margin for stable amplification with passive filtering.

Use Scenario: Translating logic-level signals between 3.3 V and 5 V domains in mixed-voltage embedded systems.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Active level translator using emitter-follower or common-emitter inversion with pull-up resistors.

Use Value: V_CEO = 30 V and I_C = 100 mA support reliable operation across industrial and consumer voltage rails.

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN small-signal transistor applications.

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
BC547B	V_CEO = 45 V, h_FE = 200–450 at I_C = 2 mA, f_T = 300 MHz - higher voltage rating and bandwidth	Better suited for higher-voltage switching or wider-bandwidth amplification where BC184RL1's 30 V limit is constraining	Select BC547B when system rail exceeds 30 V or when >100 MHz small-signal gain is required
2N3904	V_CEO = 40 V, h_FE = 100–300 at I_C = 10 mA, f_T = 300 MHz - industry-standard replacement with broader availability	Higher f_T and tighter h_FE binning support precision analog designs requiring consistent gain	Choose 2N3904 for new designs needing long-term supply assurance and documented parametric consistency

Compared with BC547B and 2N3904, BC184RL1 offers lower cost and proven reliability in legacy audio and control circuits but has narrower voltage headroom and lower bandwidth - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, low-frequency applications where its 30 V/140 MHz envelope is sufficient.

Availability

BC184RL1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifiers, low-speed switch drivers, and RF signal amplifiers requiring stable component supply across industrial, consumer, and educational electronics programs.

Supply support for BC184RL1 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

ON Semiconductor is a global semiconductor manufacturer specializing in power management, analog, sensor, and discrete solutions for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The BC184RL1 belongs to Motorola's legacy small-signal transistor family designed for general-purpose linear amplification and switching in cost-sensitive, through-hole assembled electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC184RL1?

The BC184RL1 has a maximum collector-emitter voltage (V_CEO) rating of 30 Vdc. This value is specified under test conditions of I_C = 2.0 mA and I_B = 0, and represents the highest voltage that can be safely applied between collector and emitter while keeping the transistor in the off state. Exceeding this rating risks avalanche breakdown and permanent damage to the BC184RL1.

What is the DC current gain (h_FE) range of BC184RL1 at I_C = 2.0 mA?

The BC184RL1 exhibits a DC current gain (h_FE) range of 100 to 250 when tested at I_C = 2.0 mA and V_CE = 5.0 V. This wide gain spread reflects manufacturing tolerances and must be accounted for in bias network design - for example, using emitter degeneration or feedback to ensure stable operating point across BC184RL1 units.

Does BC184RL1 have a specified noise figure, and under what conditions?

Yes, the BC184RL1 has a specified noise figure (NF) of 4.0 dB, measured at I_C = 0.2 mA, V_CE = 5.0 V, R_S = 2.0 kΩ, and f = 1.0 kHz. This parameter confirms its suitability for low-noise analog signal amplification tasks such as microphone preamplification, where maintaining signal integrity is critical. The BC184RL1's NF is not guaranteed at other frequencies or bias points.

What package type and pin configuration does BC184RL1 use?

The BC184RL1 uses the TO-92 plastic package (Case 29–04, Style 17), with Pin 1 = Collector, Pin 2 = Base, and Pin 3 = Emitter - as confirmed in Motorola's Device Data on page 2–79. This configuration aligns with EIAJ RC1008B and IEC 286–2 standards and is compatible with standard through-hole PCB footprints and automatic insertion equipment.

What is the thermal resistance junction-to-ambient (R_JA) for BC184RL1?

The thermal resistance from junction to ambient (R_JA) for BC184RL1 is 357°C/W, specified for the TO-92 package at T_A = 25°C with no heatsink. This value determines how much the junction temperature rises above ambient per watt of dissipated power. For example, at 350 mW dissipation, the junction will rise approximately 125°C above ambient - necessitating derating above 25°C per the 2.8 mW/°C slope in the datasheet.

BC184RL1 Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: onsemi

Series:: -

Package/Case:: TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)

Packaging:: Bulk

Product Status:: Active

Transistor Type:: NPN

Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):: 100 mA

Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):: 30 V

Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:: 600mV @ 5mA, 100mA

Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):: 15nA (ICBO)

DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:: 250 @ 2mA, 5V

Power - Max:: 350 mW

Frequency - Transition:: 280MHz

Operating Temperature:: -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)

Grade:: -

Qualification:: -

Mounting Type:: Through Hole

Supplier Device Package:: TO-92

BC184RL1 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for BC184RL1 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC184RL1 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.

2.Are the price and stock information for BC184RL1 reliable?

The price and inventory of BC184RL1 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC184RL1 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for BC184RL1?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC184RL1 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for BC184RL1?

BC184RL1 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your BC184RL1 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.

Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.

5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for BC184RL1?

For technical support, including BC184RL1 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC184RL1 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that BC184RL1 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All BC184RL1 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that BC184RL1 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC184RL1?

All BC184RL1 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC184RL1, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:

1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.

2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.

3.The BC184RL1 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for BC184RL1:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

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