onsemi BC368_D27Z

Overview

BC368_D27Z from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose bipolar junction transistor designed for medium-power amplification and switching applications, with a continuous collector current rating of 2.0 A, V_CEO = 20 V, and DC current gain (h_FE) up to 375 at I_C = 5 mA. It operates across –55°C to +150°C and is commonly used in relay drivers and low-frequency amplifier stages.

For engineers reviewing the BC368_D27Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its TO-92 package, 625 mW power dissipation at 25°C, saturation voltage of 0.5 V at I_C = 1.0 A / I_B = 100 mA, and thermal resistance R_θJA = 200°C/W - all critical for thermal design and drive capability validation.

Technical Context

The BC368_D27Z is a silicon NPN BJT fabricated using Fairchild's Process 37, optimized for linear amplification and saturated switching. Its h_FE varies from 50 to 375 depending on operating point (e.g., 85 at I_C = 0.5 A), and it delivers f_T = 45 MHz at I_C = 10 mA, confirming suitability for audio and low-speed digital switching.

It exhibits V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V under forced β = 10 conditions and V_BE(on) ≈ 1.0 V at I_C = 1.0 A, enabling predictable base drive design. Breakdown ratings - V_(BR)CEO = 20 V, V_(BR)CES = 25 V, V_(BR)EBO = 5.0 V - define safe operating area boundaries for circuit protection.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC368_D27Z is housed in a standard TO-92 plastic package with 3 leads. The device uses the EBC (Emitter-Base-Collector) pin configuration when viewed with flat side facing outward and leads pointing down.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN general-purpose amplifier applications.

Compared with BC368_D27Z, BC337-40 offers higher gain and voltage margin at identical packaging, while 2N2222A trades current capacity for speed - making BC368_D27Z optimal for cost-sensitive, medium-current amplification and switching where 20 V and 2 A define the operational envelope.

Availability

BC368_D27Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for relay drivers, DC motor controls, audio pre-amplifiers, and linear regulator pass elements requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for BC368_D27Z 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

Fairchild Semiconductor was a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in power management, analog, and discrete devices before its acquisition by ON Semiconductor in 2016.

The BC368_D27Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose BJT family, engineered for robust, cost-effective amplification and switching in industrial, consumer, and automotive auxiliary systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current for BC368_D27Z?

The BC368_D27Z supports a maximum continuous collector current of 2.0 A at T_A = 25°C, as specified in its Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Derating applies above 25°C at 5.0 mW/°C, and actual current capability depends on thermal management and V_CE conditions. Always verify junction temperature remains ≤150°C in final layout using R_θJA = 200°C/W.

Is BC368_D27Z suitable for switching 12 V relay coils?

Yes, BC368_D27Z is well-suited for driving 12 V relay coils with typical coil currents up to 500 mA. Its V_CEO = 20 V exceeds 12 V requirements, and V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V at I_C = 1.0 A ensures low power loss. Use a base resistor sized for I_B ≥ I_C/h_FE(min) - e.g., 10 mA for h_FE = 50 - to guarantee saturation in BC368_D27Z.

What is the pin configuration of BC368_D27Z in TO-92?

When viewing the BC368_D27Z TO-92 package with the flat side facing you and leads pointing downward, the pin order from left to right is Emitter (E), Base (B), Collector (C). This EBC configuration is standard for Fairchild's BC368 series and matches common PCB footprints for TO-92 transistors.

Does BC368_D27Z have a documented lead-free or RoHS-compliant version?

The BC368_D27Z datasheet does not specify RoHS or lead-free status. As a legacy Fairchild part manufactured prior to full RoHS enforcement, it may contain leaded terminations. For compliance-critical designs, consult ON Semiconductor's current cross-reference or contact Aetrix Electronics for certified RoHS-compliant alternatives with identical electrical specs and TO-92 packaging.

How does BC368_D27Z compare to BC337 in terms of gain and voltage rating?

BC368_D27Z has V_CEO = 20 V and h_FE = 50–375, whereas BC337 variants offer V_CEO = 45 V and h_FE starting at 100 (BC337-25) or 250 (BC337-40). BC368_D27Z is optimized for 20 V systems needing moderate gain and higher current, while BC337 prioritizes gain and voltage margin - making BC368_D27Z preferable where tighter voltage control and cost efficiency matter.