onsemi BC369

Overview

BC369 from ON Semiconductor is a PNP general-purpose amplifier transistor in TO-92 package, rated for V_CEO = −20 V, I_C = −1.0 A, and P_D = 625 mW at T_A = 25°C, with h_FE ≥ 50 at I_C = 5 mA and f_T = 65 MHz - used in low-power linear amplification and switching circuits in consumer audio and power supply feedback stages.

For engineers reviewing the BC369 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its PNP polarity, −20 V V_CEO rating, −1.0 A continuous collector current capability, TO-92 mechanical compatibility, and verified h_FE and f_T performance at 25°C.

Technical Context

The BC369 operates as a silicon PNP bipolar junction transistor optimized for medium-current linear amplification and saturated switching. Its DC current gain (h_FE) ranges from 50 to 375 depending on bias conditions, and it delivers f_T = 65 MHz at I_C = 10 mA, V_CE = 5.0 V, supporting audio-frequency and low-speed digital signal handling.

Thermal design is constrained by R_JA = 200°C/W and R_JC = 83.3°C/W, with maximum junction temperature of +150°C. Saturation behavior is characterized by V_CE(sat) ≤ −0.5 V at I_C = −1.0 A and I_B = −100 mA, and V_BE(on) ≤ −1.0 V under same conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC369 is housed in a standard TO-92 (Case 29, Style 14) plastic package with lead-free plating. Pin 1 is Emitter, Pin 2 is Collector, Pin 3 is Base - consistent across ON Semiconductor's BC36x series.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP general-purpose transistor applications.

Compared with BC369G and BC639, the BC369 offers optimal balance of gain, speed, and voltage rating for cost-sensitive medium-voltage linear and switching roles - BC369G matches it exactly for RoHS, while BC639 trades gain for higher breakdown at no pinout change but altered bias behavior.

Availability

BC369 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio pre-amplifier stages, DC-DC converter feedback loops, and relay driver circuits requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and TO-92 mechanical compatibility.

Supply support for BC369 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 (now part of onsemi) is a global semiconductor supplier specializing in energy-efficient power, analog, sensor, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and consumer markets.

The BC369 belongs to ON Semiconductor's legacy BC36x family of general-purpose bipolar transistors, designed for cost-effective, reliable amplification and switching in non-safety-critical consumer and industrial electronics.

FAQ

What is the pin configuration of the BC369?

The BC369 uses a standard TO-92 package with Pin 1 = Emitter, Pin 2 = Collector, Pin 3 = Base - confirmed in ON Semiconductor's BC368/D datasheet Figure 4 and Package Dimensions section. This arrangement is consistent across all BC36x variants and aligns with JEDEC TO-226 outline standards.

Is BC369 electrically equivalent to BC369ZL1G?

Yes, BC369ZL1G is the Pb-free, tape-and-reel packaged version of BC369 with identical electrical specifications, thermal ratings, and pinout. The "ZL1G" suffix denotes lead-free finish and 2000-unit ammo packaging per ON Semiconductor's ordering nomenclature in the BC368/D datasheet.

What is the maximum operating temperature for BC369?

The BC369 has a specified operating and storage junction temperature range of −55°C to +150°C. Its thermal resistance R_JA = 200°C/W means that at 625 mW dissipation and 25°C ambient, junction temperature reaches 175°C - exceeding rating - so derating or heatsinking is required for sustained operation near P_D max.

Can BC369 replace BC368 in a circuit?

No - BC369 is a PNP transistor while BC368 is NPN; they are complementary but not interchangeable without inverting bias polarity and signal flow. Swapping them would reverse current direction and likely prevent circuit operation unless the entire topology is redesigned for PNP/NPN symmetry.

What is the typical f_T value for BC369 and how is it measured?

The BC369 has a minimum f_T of 65 MHz, measured at I_C = 10 mA, V_CE = 5.0 V, and f = 20 MHz per ON Semiconductor's BC368/D datasheet Electrical Characteristics table. This parameter reflects the frequency at which short-circuit current gain drops to unity and validates suitability for audio and low-speed switching.