onsemi BC33716

Overview

BC33716 from ON Semiconductor is a general-purpose NPN epitaxial silicon transistor in TO-92 package, rated for 45 V V_CEO, 800 mA I_C, and 625 mW power dissipation, with DC current gain (h_FE) of 100–250 at 100 mA collector current - widely used in low-power switching and audio amplifier stages.

For engineers reviewing the BC33716 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its V_CEO/V_CES ratings, h_FE classification band (16), thermal resistance (200 °C/W), and TO-92 mechanical compatibility in discrete biasing and driver circuits.

Technical Context

The BC33716 operates as a medium-current, low-voltage NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for linear amplification and saturated switching. Its h_FE range (100–250) and low V_CE(sat) (0.7 V @ 500 mA/50 mA) support stable biasing in Class-A audio preamplifiers and digital logic interface drivers.

It shares the BC337 family's absolute maximum ratings: 45 V V_CEO, 50 V V_CES, 5 V V_EBO, and 150 °C junction temperature. Thermal performance is defined for FR-4 PCBs (76 mm × 114 mm × 1.57 mm) with R_θJA = 200 °C/W.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-92, 3-lead, JEDEC-compliant molded plastic case with straight or bent leads (Tape & Reel variant BC33716TFR uses straight-lead configuration).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BC337-25 and 2N2222A, BC33716 delivers the best balance of gain predictability (100–250), current capacity (800 mA), and voltage margin (45 V V_CEO) for new designs requiring reliable, low-cost NPN switching in consumer and industrial electronics.

Availability

BC33716 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifier stages, microcontroller GPIO drivers, and low-power output stages requiring stable component supply across prototyping, pilot production, and volume manufacturing.

Supply support for BC33716 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 energy-efficient power and signal management solutions, with heritage from Fairchild Semiconductor.

The BC33716 belongs to the BC337 family of general-purpose NPN transistors designed for cost-effective, high-reliability switching and amplification in consumer, industrial, and computing applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC33716?

The BC33716 has a V_CEO rating of 45 V, meaning it can safely withstand up to 45 volts between collector and emitter with the base open. This rating applies at T_A = 25 °C and must be derated at higher ambient temperatures per the device's thermal characteristics. Exceeding this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent damage to the BC33716.

Does BC33716 have a specified h_FE range, and how is it binned?

Yes, BC33716 is h_FE-binned to the "16" classification, guaranteeing a DC current gain of 100–250 when measured at V_CE = 1 V and I_C = 100 mA. This binning ensures predictable base drive requirements in production designs and distinguishes BC33716 from BC337-25 (160–400) and BC337-40 (250–630). The BC33716 specification is verified per the official ON Semiconductor datasheet Rev. 1.5.

Can BC33716 replace BC337-25 in an existing design?

BC33716 can substitute for BC337-25 only if the circuit tolerates lower h_FE (100–250 vs. 160–400). In high-gain or low-base-current applications - such as phototransistor amplifiers or high-impedance sensor buffers - BC33716 may require base resistor adjustment. For saturated switching with ample base drive, BC33716 performs equivalently. Always verify V_CE(sat) and thermal rise in the target BC33716 application.

What is the thermal resistance (R_θJA) of BC33716, and how does it affect layout?

The BC33716 has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 200 °C/W under standard JEDEC test conditions (FR-4 PCB, 76 mm × 114 mm, minimum land pattern). This means each watt of dissipated power raises the junction temperature by 200 °C above ambient. To maintain safe operation below 150 °C T_J, keep power dissipation below 375 mW at 25 °C ambient - or reduce ambient temperature, increase copper area, or add airflow. Layout must follow recommended TO-92 pad dimensions to achieve this R_θJA.

Is BC33716 suitable for automotive applications?

No, BC33716 is not qualified for automotive use. Per ON Semiconductor's authorized use policy, it is designated as a commercial-grade part and explicitly excluded from safety-critical, transportation, or life-support applications unless separately approved in writing. It lacks AEC-Q101 qualification, extended temperature grading, and enhanced reliability testing required for automotive environments. Use automotive-qualified alternatives like MMBT3904 or NSS20501LT1G instead.