onsemi BC516_D75Z

Overview

BC516_D75Z from onsemi is a PNP Darlington transistor optimized for high-current-switching applications requiring extreme DC current gain (h_FE ≥ 30,000 at I_C = −20 mA) with V_CEO = −30 V, I_C = −1 A continuous rating, and TO-92-3 package. It serves as a high-gain output stage in low-frequency power control circuits such as relay drivers and lamp dimmers.

For engineers reviewing the BC516_D75Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include verified Darlington architecture, guaranteed minimum h_FE, V_CE(sat) ≤ −1 V at I_C = −100 mA/I_B = −0.1 mA, thermal resistance R_θJA = 200 °C/W, and Pb-free TO-92-3 mechanical compliance per CASE 135AR.

Technical Context

The BC516_D75Z implements a monolithic PNP Darlington pair with integrated base-emitter resistor network absent - external base biasing required. Its design targets low-speed, high-gain switching where f_T = 200 MHz is not utilized; instead, it delivers stable h_FE > 30,000 up to I_C = −1 A with V_CE = −2 V.

Thermal performance is defined by R_θJC = 83.3 °C/W and R_θJA = 200 °C/W on standard FR-4 PCB (76 mm × 114 mm), enabling reliable operation across −55 °C to +150 °C junction temperature range without forced cooling in moderate-duty cycles.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC516_D75Z is housed in a Pb-free TO-92-3 plastic package (CASE 135AR), lead-formed, with 4.83 mm × 4.76 mm footprint. Pin 1 = Collector, Pin 2 = Base, Pin 3 = Emitter - confirmed per official onsemi mechanical drawing and marking diagram.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MJD2955G and BC517, BC516_D75Z uniquely delivers ≥30,000 h_FE in TO-92-3 with no internal biasing - making it optimal for precision low-base-drive switching where gain stability and package size are jointly constrained.

Availability

BC516_D75Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for relay driver circuits, solenoid actuator interfaces, lamp dimming control, and low-frequency power amplifier stages requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial lifecycle support.

Supply support for BC516_D75Z 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

onsemi (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier delivering energy-efficient, intelligent power and sensing solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, medical, and IoT applications.

The BC516_D75Z belongs to onsemi's legacy bipolar transistor product line, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability discrete switching in industrial control and appliance systems where ultra-high DC gain and TO-92 form factor are essential.

FAQ

What is the pin configuration of BC516_D75Z?

The BC516_D75Z uses a standard TO-92-3 package with Pin 1 = Collector, Pin 2 = Base, Pin 3 = Emitter - confirmed in onsemi's official mechanical drawing CASE 135AR. This configuration is consistent across all BC516 variants including BC516_D75Z and must be observed during PCB layout to avoid functional failure.

Does BC516_D75Z have an integrated base resistor?

No, BC516_D75Z does not include an integrated base-emitter resistor. It is a bare Darlington transistor requiring external base biasing - unlike BC517 which integrates a 1 kΩ resistor. This gives designers full control over base current but mandates careful calculation of R_B to ensure proper saturation and avoid thermal overstress in BC516_D75Z.

What is the maximum continuous collector current for BC516_D75Z?

The maximum continuous collector current for BC516_D75Z is −1 A at T_A = 25 °C, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Derating is required above 25 °C ambient per R_θJA = 200 °C/W; at 70 °C ambient, max I_C drops to approximately −0.7 A to maintain T_J ≤ +150 °C.

Is BC516_D75Z RoHS compliant?

Yes, BC516_D75Z is explicitly marked as Pb-free in the onsemi datasheet and complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. The TO-92-3 package uses lead-free terminations and meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level requirements for standard reflow soldering profiles.

Can BC516_D75Z replace BC517 in existing designs?

BC516_D75Z cannot directly replace BC517 without circuit modification because BC517 includes an integrated 1 kΩ base-emitter resistor while BC516_D75Z has no internal resistor. Substituting BC516_D75Z requires adding an external base resistor and verifying h_FE-dependent saturation behavior - BC516_D75Z offers higher gain but demands more precise biasing.