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

onsemi BC368

Name: BC368
Brand: onsemi
SKU: BC368
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: BC368

Manufacturer:: onsemi

Category:: Single Bipolar Transistors

Package:: TO-226-3, TO-92-3 Long Body

Datasheet:: BC368.pdf

Description:: TRANS NPN 20V 1A TO92

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

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Product details

Overview

BC368 from ON Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose amplifier transistor in TO-92 package, rated for V_CEO = 20 V, I_C = 1.0 A continuous, and P_D = 625 mW at T_A = 25°C. It delivers h_FE = 50–375 (depending on bias), f_T = 65 MHz, and V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V at I_C/I_B = 10, commonly used in low-voltage audio preamplifier stages and discrete switching circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC368 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its 20 V V_CEO rating, 1.0 A collector current capability, TO-92 mechanical compatibility, thermal resistance of 200°C/W (junction-to-ambient), and verified h_FE range across operating conditions.

Technical Context

The BC368 operates as a silicon NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for linear amplification and medium-speed switching. Its DC current gain varies from h_FE = 50 (min at I_C = 5 mA) to 375 (max at I_C = 1.0 A, V_CE = 1.0 V), with f_T = 65 MHz confirming usable bandwidth up to mid-VHF range. Saturation behavior is characterized by V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V under I_C = 1.0 A / I_B = 100 mA drive.

Thermal design relies on R_JA = 200°C/W and R_JC = 83.3°C/W, supporting operation from −55°C to +150°C junction temperature. The device meets Pb-free requirements per ON Semiconductor's standard packaging, with marking code BC368 and date code format AYWW.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_CEO	20 V - Maximum safe collector-emitter voltage before breakdown under open-base condition; defines upper rail limit in amplifier or switch designs.
I_C (continuous)	1.0 A - Continuous collector current rating at T_A = 25°C; derates linearly above ambient temperature.
h_FE range	50–375 - Confirmed DC current gain spread across test conditions; enables predictable biasing in Class-A amplifiers and saturated switches.
f_T	65 MHz - Transition frequency at I_C = 10 mA, V_CE = 5 V; supports stable small-signal amplification up to ~10 MHz with margin.
V_CE(sat)	≤ 0.5 V - Collector-emitter saturation voltage at I_C = 1.0 A, I_B = 100 mA; determines conduction loss and heat generation in switching applications.
R_JA	200°C/W - Junction-to-ambient thermal resistance in free-air; sets minimum heatsinking requirement for power dissipation above ~300 mW.

Pinout & Package

BC368 is housed in a through-hole TO-92 (Case 29, Style 14) package with standardized lead assignment: Pin 1 = Emitter, Pin 2 = Collector, Pin 3 = Base. The package supports manual soldering and wave soldering per ON Semiconductor's Pb-free guidelines.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
Pin 1	Emitter	Current exit terminal; referenced to ground or negative rail in common-emitter configurations; critical for bias network return path.
Pin 2	Collector	Current entry terminal; connects to load or supply rail; carries full output current and dissipates majority of power in active/saturation modes.
Pin 3	Base	Control terminal; requires current-driven input (not voltage-driven); base resistor sizing must ensure sufficient I_B for target I_C and h_FE margin.

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Pb-free TO-92 package	Complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU; compatible with standard lead-free reflow and hand-soldering processes without special profile adjustments.
Wide h_FE range (50–375)	Enables robust bias design across production lots and temperature extremes; reduces need for emitter degeneration in fixed-bias amplifiers.
V_CEO = 20 V, V_CES = 25 V	Supports operation in 12 V and 15 V systems with safety margin; allows use in relay drivers and logic-level interface circuits.
f_T = 65 MHz	Permits stable audio-frequency amplification with headroom for transient response; suitable for wideband IF amplifiers up to 10 MHz.

Applications

Audio Preamp Stage	Relay Driver Circuit
Use Scenario: Low-noise voltage amplification of microphone or line-level signals in portable audio equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN amplifier in common-emitter configuration with emitter degeneration and DC feedback. Use Value: Delivers >30 dB voltage gain at 1 kHz with <1% THD using h_FE ≥ 100 and V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V to minimize quiescent drop across bias resistors.	Use Scenario: Driving 12 V, 500 mA electromagnetic relays from microcontroller GPIO pins. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Saturated NPN switch with base current limiting and flyback diode protection. Use Value: Ensures reliable turn-on with I_B = 100 mA driving I_C = 1.0 A, maintaining V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V to limit coil power loss and contact arcing.
LED Current Regulator	DC Motor Speed Control
Use Scenario: Constant-current source for high-brightness white LEDs in indicator panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Emitter-follower configured transistor with sense resistor feedback. Use Value: Maintains ±5% LED current accuracy over temperature via h_FE-stable bias and V_BE(on) = 1.0 V specification at I_C = 1.0 A.	Use Scenario: PWM-controlled speed regulation of 12 V brushed DC motors in industrial actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Medium-power switching element in low-side driver topology. Use Value: Supports 20 kHz PWM switching with f_T = 65 MHz and fast turn-off due to low C_obo and C_ibo, minimizing switching losses.

Audio Preamp Stage

Relay Driver Circuit

Use Scenario: Low-noise voltage amplification of microphone or line-level signals in portable audio equipment.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN amplifier in common-emitter configuration with emitter degeneration and DC feedback.

Use Value: Delivers >30 dB voltage gain at 1 kHz with <1% THD using h_FE ≥ 100 and V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V to minimize quiescent drop across bias resistors.

Use Scenario: Driving 12 V, 500 mA electromagnetic relays from microcontroller GPIO pins.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Saturated NPN switch with base current limiting and flyback diode protection.

Use Value: Ensures reliable turn-on with I_B = 100 mA driving I_C = 1.0 A, maintaining V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V to limit coil power loss and contact arcing.

LED Current Regulator

DC Motor Speed Control

Use Scenario: Constant-current source for high-brightness white LEDs in indicator panels.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Emitter-follower configured transistor with sense resistor feedback.

Use Value: Maintains ±5% LED current accuracy over temperature via h_FE-stable bias and V_BE(on) = 1.0 V specification at I_C = 1.0 A.

Use Scenario: PWM-controlled speed regulation of 12 V brushed DC motors in industrial actuators.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Medium-power switching element in low-side driver topology.

Use Value: Supports 20 kHz PWM switching with f_T = 65 MHz and fast turn-off due to low C_obo and C_ibo, minimizing switching losses.

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
BC337-40	Higher h_FE min = 250; same V_CEO = 45 V, I_C = 0.5 A; TO-92 package.	Lower max current limits suitability for <500 mA loads; better for high-gain, low-current signal stages.	Select BC337-40 when gain consistency >250 is required and load current stays below 0.5 A.
2N2222A	V_CEO = 40 V; I_C = 0.8 A; h_FE = 100–300; TO-18 metal can package.	Metal package offers lower R_JA (~150°C/W) but incompatible footprint; higher voltage rating suits 24 V systems.	Choose 2N2222A for improved thermal performance and 24 V operation where TO-18 mounting is acceptable.

Compared with BC368, BC337-40 provides higher guaranteed gain at lower current but reduced current capacity, while 2N2222A offers superior voltage rating and thermal resistance in a non-drop-in metal package-neither is pin-compatible, requiring layout revision for substitution.

Availability

BC368 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifier stages, relay driver circuits, and LED current regulator designs requiring stable component supply, consistent h_FE distribution, and Pb-free compliance.

Supply support for BC368 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 devices for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.

The BC368 belongs to ON Semiconductor's legacy general-purpose bipolar transistor product line, designed for cost-sensitive, medium-power linear and switching applications where reliability, thermal stability, and broad h_FE coverage are prioritized.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC368?

The BC368 has a maximum collector-emitter voltage rating (V_CEO) of 20 Vdc under open-base conditions. This value is confirmed in the "Maximum Ratings" table of the official ON Semiconductor datasheet BC368/D Rev. 5. Exceeding this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent device damage, so BC368 is suited for 12 V and lower-rail systems. The BC368 datasheet also specifies V_CES = 25 V for collector-emitter voltage with base shorted to emitter.

What is the DC current gain (h_FE) range of BC368 across operating conditions?

The BC368 exhibits a DC current gain (h_FE) range of 50 to 375 depending on test conditions: minimum 50 at V_CE = 10 V, I_C = 5.0 mA; up to 375 at V_CE = 1.0 V, I_C = 1.0 A. These values are explicitly listed in the "ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS" section of the BC368 datasheet. Designers must account for this spread when calculating base drive and stability margins in amplifier or switch circuits using BC368.

Is BC368 available in a Pb-free package?

Yes, BC368 is available in Pb-free TO-92 packages, designated as BC368G and BC368ZL1G per the ON Semiconductor ordering information table. These variants comply with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and are marked with a "G" suffix. The BC368 datasheet confirms Pb-free availability and references ON Semiconductor's Soldering and Mounting Techniques Reference Manual for reflow profiles and handling guidance specific to BC368G.

What is the thermal resistance (junction-to-ambient) for BC368 in free air?

The thermal resistance from junction to ambient (R_JA) for BC368 is 200°C/W under standard free-air conditions, as specified in the "THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS" section of the BC368/D datasheet. This value assumes no heatsink and natural convection cooling. For sustained power dissipation above ~300 mW, derating per the 5.0 mW/°C curve above 25°C ambient is required to maintain T_J ≤ 150°C. R_JC = 83.3°C/W is also provided for heatsink interface modeling.

How is the pinout arranged on BC368 in TO-92 package?

The BC368 uses standard TO-92 pinout: Pin 1 = Emitter, Pin 2 = Collector, Pin 3 = Base - confirmed in the "PACKAGE DIMENSIONS" diagram (Case 29-11, Style 14) of the BC368/D datasheet. When viewing the flat side of the TO-92 package with leads pointing downward, the leftmost pin is Pin 1 (Emitter), center is Pin 2 (Collector), and rightmost is Pin 3 (Base). This arrangement is consistent across all BC368 variants including BC368G and BC368ZL1G.

BC368 Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: onsemi

Series:: -

Package/Case:: TO-226-3, TO-92-3 Long Body

Packaging:: Bulk

Product Status:: Obsolete

Transistor Type:: NPN

Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):: 1 A

Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):: 20 V

Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:: 500mV @ 100mA, 1A

Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):: 10µA (ICBO)

DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:: 85 @ 500mA, 1V

Power - Max:: 625 mW

Frequency - Transition:: 65MHz

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

Grade:: -

Qualification:: -

Mounting Type:: Through Hole

Supplier Device Package:: TO-92 (TO-226)

BC368 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for BC368 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC368 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 BC368 reliable?

The price and inventory of BC368 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC368 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for BC368?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC368 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for BC368?

BC368 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your BC368 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 BC368?

For technical support, including BC368 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC368 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that BC368 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All BC368 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 BC368 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC368?

All BC368 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC368, 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 BC368 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for BC368:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

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

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