onsemi BC327-016G

Overview

BC327-016G from onsemi is a PNP silicon bipolar junction transistor (BJT) designed for general-purpose amplification and switching in low-voltage, medium-current circuits. It features V_CEO = −45 V, I_C = −800 mA, h_FE = 100–160 (at I_C = −100 mA), V_CE(sat) ≤ −0.7 V (at I_C = −500 mA, I_B = −50 mA), and TO-92 package with Pb-free finish - commonly used in relay drivers, LED drivers, and signal inversion stages.

For engineers reviewing the BC327-016G datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include guaranteed DC current gain range, saturation voltage under defined drive conditions, thermal resistance (R_JA = 200°C/W), safe operating area limits, and Pb-free compliance for RoHS-constrained designs.

Technical Context

The BC327-016G operates as a standard PNP BJT with base-controlled current amplification. Its h_FE binning (100–160 at I_C = −100 mA, V_CE = −1.0 V) ensures predictable gain in linear amplifier and saturated switch configurations. The device supports continuous collector currents up to −800 mA and withstands reverse voltages up to −50 V (V_CES).

Thermal performance is defined by R_JA = 200°C/W and R_JC = 83.3°C/W, enabling operation across −55°C to +150°C junction temperature range. Small-signal parameters include f_T = 260 MHz and C_ob = 11 pF, confirming suitability for audio-frequency amplification and moderate-speed switching.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC327-016G is housed in a TO-92 plastic package (Case 29, Style 17), with standardized lead configuration and Pb-free plating per onsemi's RoHS-compliant manufacturing.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP BJT switching and amplification applications.

Compared with BC327-16 and BC807-16, the BC327-016G uniquely combines Pb-free compliance, through-hole manufacturability, and −800 mA current capability - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, RoHS-mandated industrial controls where board-level serviceability and thermal headroom are prioritized over footprint size.

Availability

BC327-016G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for relay drivers, LED current sinks, signal inverters, and low-voltage power switches requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for BC327-016G 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

onsemi (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier delivering energy-efficient, high-performance silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, medical, and IoT applications.

The BC327 series belongs to onsemi's general-purpose bipolar transistor product line, engineered for reliability and consistency in discrete analog signal conditioning and power control across consumer, industrial, and infrastructure equipment.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed DC current gain (h_FE) range for BC327-016G?

The BC327-016G has a guaranteed h_FE range of 100 to 160 when tested at I_C = −100 mA and V_CE = −1.0 V. This binning ensures predictable base drive requirements across production lots. The BC327-016G datasheet specifies this range explicitly in the "ON CHARACTERISTICS" table, distinguishing it from the broader BC327 family variants like BC327-25 (h_FE = 160–250) and BC327-40 (h_FE = 250–400).

Is BC327-016G RoHS-compliant and what does the 'G' suffix indicate?

Yes, BC327-016G is RoHS-compliant. The 'G' suffix denotes a Pb-free (lead-free) finish on the TO-92 package leads, meeting EU Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. This is confirmed in the ordering information table and marking diagram section of the official BC327/D datasheet, where BC327-016G is explicitly listed alongside its Pb-free shipping and packaging details.

What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for BC327-016G?

The BC327-016G is rated for a maximum continuous collector current (I_C) of −800 mA at T_A = 25°C. This value is specified in the "MAXIMUM RATINGS" table and remains valid under derated conditions above ambient temperature (5.0 mW/°C reduction in free-air operation). Exceeding this rating risks thermal failure or parametric shift.

Can BC327-016G be used in switching applications, and what is its typical V_CE(sat)?

Yes, BC327-016G is widely used in saturated switching applications. Its typical V_CE(sat) is −0.7 V when I_C = −500 mA and I_B = −50 mA (I_C/I_B = 10), as stated in the "ON CHARACTERISTICS" section. This low saturation voltage ensures efficient power transfer and minimal heat generation in relay drivers and LED sink circuits.

What is the thermal resistance (R_JA) of BC327-016G and how does it affect PCB layout?

The BC327-016G has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (R_JA) of 200°C/W under standard free-air conditions. This means each watt of dissipated power raises the junction temperature by 200°C above ambient. To maintain safe operation, PCB layout must avoid excessive copper isolation around the TO-92 leads and consider airflow or heatsinking if power dissipation exceeds 300 mW - especially critical in enclosed industrial enclosures.