Send an Inquiry

To receive a quote for your project, please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Submit Inventory List

Please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

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

onsemi BC368-25ZL1

Name: BC368-25ZL1
Brand: onsemi
SKU: BC368-25ZL1
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

Compare

Part No.:: BC368-25ZL1

Manufacturer:: onsemi

Category:: Single Bipolar Transistors

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

Datasheet:: BC368-25ZL1.pdf

Description:: TRANS NPN 20V 1A TO92

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

Payment:

Shipping:

Inventory:42,000

Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.

Product details

Overview

BC368-25ZL1 from ON Semiconductor is an NPN small-signal transistor rated for 25 V_CEO, 1.0 A continuous collector current, and 1.5 W total dissipation at T_C = 25°C, with h_FE of 60–375 (at I_C = 1.0 A, V_CE = 1.0 V), used in switching and linear amplification stages of power management and interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC368-25ZL1 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include V_CEO/V_CES rating, saturation voltage under high-current drive, thermal resistance (R_JC = 83.3°C/W), and TO-92 package compatibility for through-hole board-level integration.

Technical Context

The BC368-25ZL1 operates as a general-purpose NPN bipolar junction transistor with specified breakdown voltages (V_(BR)CEO = 20 V, V_(BR)CBO = 25 V, V_(BR)EBO = 5.0 V) and guaranteed DC current gain range of 60–375 at I_C = 1.0 A and V_CE = 1.0 V. Its f_T = 65 MHz supports medium-frequency amplification tasks.

Thermal design is constrained by R_JA = 200°C/W (ambient) and R_JC = 83.3°C/W (case), requiring heatsinking for sustained 1.0 A operation. Saturation performance is defined at I_C/I_B = 10, with V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V and V_BE(on) ≤ 1.0 V - critical for low-loss switching in load drivers and logic interfaces.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_CEO	20 V - Maximum safe collector-emitter voltage before avalanche breakdown under open-base conditions
I_C (continuous)	1.0 A - Continuous collector current limit defining usable drive capability in switching applications
P_D @ T_C = 25°C	1.5 W - Total device dissipation limit when case temperature is maintained at 25°C
h_FE	60–375 - DC current gain range at I_C = 1.0 A, V_CE = 1.0 V, determining base drive sizing requirements
V_CE(sat)	≤ 0.5 V - Collector-emitter saturation voltage at I_C = 1.0 A, I_B = 100 mA, directly impacting conduction loss
f_T	65 MHz - Transition frequency indicating usable bandwidth for small-signal amplification
R_JC	83.3°C/W - Thermal resistance from junction to case, governing heatsink interface requirements

Pinout & Package

BC368-25ZL1 is housed in a TO-92 (TO-226AA) plastic package with lead configuration per CASE 29–04, STYLE 14 - a standard through-hole 3-pin outline with Emitter, Collector, Base assigned to pins 1, 2, and 3 respectively.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
1	Emitter	Current exit terminal; referenced to ground or negative rail in common-emitter configurations
2	Collector	Current entry terminal; connects to load or supply rail; primary heat path to case
3	Base	Control terminal; requires current-limited drive to achieve specified I_C/I_B = 10 switching condition

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
High current capability	Rated for 1.0 A continuous collector current - enables direct drive of relays, LEDs, and small solenoids without external buffering
Low saturation voltage	V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V at I_C = 1.0 A - reduces power loss and self-heating during on-state operation
Wide h_FE range	60–375 at I_C = 1.0 A - accommodates production spread while maintaining reliable turn-on margin across batches
Robust thermal rating	R_JC = 83.3°C/W - allows effective heat transfer to PCB copper or external heatsink in compact layouts
Standard TO-92 footprint	Compatible with legacy through-hole assembly processes and widely available socketing/test fixtures

Applications

Relay Driver Circuit	DC Motor Control (Small)
Use Scenario: Driving 12 V, 500 mA electromagnetic relay coils in industrial control panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN switch providing current gain to translate microcontroller GPIO output into sufficient coil current. Use Value: V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V minimizes coil voltage drop, ensuring reliable relay pull-in at low supply margins.	Use Scenario: Bidirectional H-bridge half-bridge stage for 6–12 V brushed DC motors under 800 mA load. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-side or low-side switching element controlled via PWM or logic-level signals. Use Value: 1.0 A I_C rating and 1.5 W P_D support intermittent duty-cycle operation without forced cooling.
LED Current Regulator	Logic-Level Translator
Use Scenario: Constant-current driver for high-brightness white LED strings in signage or indicator panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear current source configured with emitter resistor feedback. Use Value: h_FE stability over temperature ensures consistent LED brightness across –40°C to +85°C ambient.	Use Scenario: Level-shifting between 3.3 V MCU outputs and 5 V peripheral inputs in mixed-voltage systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Inverting open-collector interface with pull-up to target rail. Use Value: V_(BR)CEO = 20 V provides headroom against transient overshoot on 5 V bus lines.

Relay Driver Circuit

DC Motor Control (Small)

Use Scenario: Driving 12 V, 500 mA electromagnetic relay coils in industrial control panels.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN switch providing current gain to translate microcontroller GPIO output into sufficient coil current.

Use Value: V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V minimizes coil voltage drop, ensuring reliable relay pull-in at low supply margins.

Use Scenario: Bidirectional H-bridge half-bridge stage for 6–12 V brushed DC motors under 800 mA load.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-side or low-side switching element controlled via PWM or logic-level signals.

Use Value: 1.0 A I_C rating and 1.5 W P_D support intermittent duty-cycle operation without forced cooling.

LED Current Regulator

Logic-Level Translator

Use Scenario: Constant-current driver for high-brightness white LED strings in signage or indicator panels.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear current source configured with emitter resistor feedback.

Use Value: h_FE stability over temperature ensures consistent LED brightness across –40°C to +85°C ambient.

Use Scenario: Level-shifting between 3.3 V MCU outputs and 5 V peripheral inputs in mixed-voltage systems.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Inverting open-collector interface with pull-up to target rail.

Use Value: V_(BR)CEO = 20 V provides headroom against transient overshoot on 5 V bus lines.

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
BC337-40	Lower V_CEO (45 V vs. 20 V), higher h_FE min (250 vs. 60), same TO-92 package	Better suited for higher-voltage switching where gain consistency is critical; not rated for 1.0 A continuous	Select BC337-40 only if V_CEO > 25 V is required and I_C ≤ 500 mA suffices
MPSA42	Higher V_CEO (300 V), lower I_C (500 mA), different pinout (E-B-C vs. E-C-B)	Designed for high-voltage signal switching (e.g., CRT deflection, flyback drivers); incompatible pinout requires layout change	Choose MPSA42 only for >100 V applications; BC368-25ZL1 is not a drop-in replacement due to pinout mismatch

Compared with BC337-40 and MPSA42, the BC368-25ZL1 uniquely balances 1.0 A current handling, low V_CE(sat), and TO-92 compatibility - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, medium-current switching where voltage stress remains below 25 V.

Availability

BC368-25ZL1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for relay drivers, small DC motor controls, LED regulators, and logic-level translators requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for BC368-25ZL1 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, analog, sensor, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and consumer markets.

The BC368-25ZL1 belongs to ON Semiconductor's legacy small-signal transistor product line, designed for general-purpose amplification and switching in cost-sensitive, high-volume applications where reliability and manufacturability are prioritized.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for BC368-25ZL1?

The BC368-25ZL1 is rated for 1.0 A continuous collector current (I_C) at T_C = 25°C. Derating is required above this temperature - the datasheet specifies 12 mW/°C derating for case-mounted operation. This rating defines its suitability for driving moderate-power loads such as relays and small motors without external heat sinking under controlled thermal conditions.

Does BC368-25ZL1 have a documented pinout configuration, and what is it?

Yes, BC368-25ZL1 uses the standard TO-92 (CASE 29–04, STYLE 14) pinout: Pin 1 = Emitter, Pin 2 = Collector, Pin 3 = Base. This configuration is explicitly confirmed in Motorola's original device data sheet and matches ON Semiconductor's packaging documentation for BC368-25ZL1Tape and Ammunition Box ordering variants.

What is the typical DC current gain (h_FE) of BC368-25ZL1 at high current?

The BC368-25ZL1 exhibits h_FE ranging from 60 to 375 when tested at I_C = 1.0 A and V_CE = 1.0 V. This wide gain band reflects process variation but ensures functional margin for base drive design - a minimum h_FE of 60 guarantees reliable saturation even under worst-case conditions.

Can BC368-25ZL1 be used in linear amplifier applications?

Yes, BC368-25ZL1 supports linear operation with f_T = 65 MHz and specified h_FE characteristics across collector currents from 5 mA to 1.0 A. Its V_CE(sat) and thermal parameters allow stable Class-A or AB biasing, though thermal management becomes critical above ~300 mW dissipation due to R_JA = 200°C/W.

Is BC368-25ZL1 RoHS compliant and halogen-free?

BC368-25ZL1 is manufactured by ON Semiconductor to meet RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. Halogen-free status is confirmed per ON Semiconductor's material declarations - the device contains <900 ppm bromine and <900 ppm chlorine, satisfying JEDEC JS-709B definitions for halogen-free packaging.

BC368-25ZL1 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):: 1 A

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

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

Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):: 1mA (ICBO)

DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:: 170 @ 1A, 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)

BC368-25ZL1 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for BC368-25ZL1 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC368-25ZL1 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 BC368-25ZL1 reliable?

The price and inventory of BC368-25ZL1 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC368-25ZL1 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for BC368-25ZL1?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC368-25ZL1 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for BC368-25ZL1?

BC368-25ZL1 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your BC368-25ZL1 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 BC368-25ZL1?

For technical support, including BC368-25ZL1 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC368-25ZL1 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that BC368-25ZL1 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All BC368-25ZL1 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 BC368-25ZL1 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC368-25ZL1?

All BC368-25ZL1 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC368-25ZL1, 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 BC368-25ZL1 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for BC368-25ZL1:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

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

Tech Hub

2026-09-09 Counterfeit Electronic Components: How to Detect, Authenticate, and Test Suspect Parts

Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …

2026-09-08 Obsolete Electronic Components: How to Source and Evaluate Replacements

A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.

2026-09-07 TTL vs CMOS Logic Levels: 74HC and 74HCT Compatibility Explained

TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.

2026-09-04 Logic Level Shifter: How to Connect 3.3V and 5V Logic Safely

A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.

2026-09-03 74HC595 vs TPIC6B595: Output Drive, Pinout, Current, and Load Selection

The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…

2026-09-02 74HC595 Pinout, Timing, Output Current, and Applications

The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…

2026-09-01 Latch vs Flip-Flop: Timing, Differences and Design Choices

A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…

2026-08-30 D Latch Circuit: Truth Table, Timing, ICs and Applications

A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …

2026-08-28 SR Latch Explained: NOR and NAND Circuits, Truth Tables, and Applications

An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…

2026-08-27 Latch Circuit: SR and D Latches, Truth Tables, Timing, and Applications

Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…