onsemi BC557BRL1

Overview

BC557BRL1 from onsemi is a PNP silicon small-signal amplifier transistor in TO-92 package, rated for −45 V V_CEO, −50 V V_CBO, −5.0 V V_EBO, −100 mA I_C, and 320 MHz f_T. It delivers h_FE = 220–460 at I_C = −2 mA, V_CE = −5 V, and exhibits V_CE(sat) ≤ −0.65 V at I_C = −100 mA, I_B = −5 mA - used in discrete bias networks, active load switches, and low-power audio preamplifier stages.

For engineers reviewing the BC557BRL1 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include guaranteed h_FE bin (B-series), TO-92 tape-and-reel packaging (2000 pcs/reel), thermal resistance R_JA = 200°C/W, noise figure NF = 2.0 dB at 1 kHz, and compatibility with legacy BC557 design footprints requiring Pb-free compliance.

Technical Context

The BC557BRL1 operates as a general-purpose PNP bipolar junction transistor optimized for linear amplification and switching in ambient-temperature-stable circuits. Its DC current gain is binned to 220–460 (B-series), with saturation voltage tightly specified across I_C = −10 mA to −100 mA test conditions and base-emitter on-voltage V_BE(on) = −0.62 V to −0.82 V at I_C = −2 mA to −10 mA.

Thermal performance is defined by R_JA = 200°C/W (ambient) and R_JC = 83.3°C/W (case), enabling operation from −55°C to +150°C junction temperature. Small-signal parameters include f_T = 320 MHz (I_C = −10 mA), C_ob = 3.0–6.0 pF (V_CB = −10 V), and NF = 2.0 dB (I_C = −0.2 mA, R_S = 2 kΩ, f = 1 kHz).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC557BRL1 uses the standard TO-92 plastic package (Case 29, Style 17), with lead spacing of 2.54 mm (0.100″), body height ≤ 5.20 mm, and Pb-free plating per onsemi's RoHS-compliant specification.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP small-signal transistor applications.

Compared with BC557BRL1, BC557BLT1G offers identical electrical behavior and RoHS compliance with different packaging logistics, while PN2907A trades guaranteed h_FE consistency and Pb-free assurance for broader legacy availability - making BC557BRL1 optimal for new designs requiring traceable compliance and predictable gain.

Availability

BC557BRL1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifiers, discrete bias networks, and level-shifting switches requiring stable component supply, RoHS compliance, and TO-92 tape-and-reel logistics.

Supply support for BC557BRL1 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 specializing in energy-efficient power, analog, sensing, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and consumer markets.

The BC557BRL1 belongs to onsemi's legacy BC556/557/558 PNP transistor family, designed for general-purpose amplification and switching in cost-sensitive, high-volume analog circuits where reliability and parametric consistency are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC557BRL1?

The BC557BRL1 has a maximum collector-emitter voltage (V_CEO) rating of −45 V DC. This value is strictly defined under test condition I_C = −2.0 mA, I_B = 0, and represents the upper limit before avalanche breakdown occurs. Exceeding −45 V risks irreversible device failure, and derating is recommended for long-term reliability in variable-temperature environments.

Is BC557BRL1 RoHS compliant and what does the 'G' suffix indicate?

Yes, BC557BRL1 is RoHS compliant. The 'G' suffix (as in BC557BRL1G) explicitly denotes Pb-free construction per EU Directive 2011/65/EU. While BC557BRL1 itself does not carry the 'G', its official ordering information confirms it is shipped in Pb-free form - consistent with onsemi's full transition to green packaging for this family since 2005.

What is the guaranteed h_FE range for BC557BRL1 at I_C = −2 mA?

The BC557BRL1 is binned as a B-series device, guaranteeing h_FE between 220 and 460 when tested at I_C = −2.0 mA and V_CE = −5.0 V. This range is verified per onsemi's datasheet Table "DC Current Gain" and distinguishes it from BC557A (120–270) and BC557C (290–800), enabling predictable bias design without gain screening.

Can BC557BRL1 be used in place of BC557B in existing designs?

Yes, BC557BRL1 is a direct replacement for BC557B in all electrical and thermal respects. Both share identical TO-92 package, B-series h_FE binning, and absolute maximum ratings. The only difference is packaging format: BC557BRL1 ships in 2000-piece tape-and-reel, whereas BC557B is bulk-packed - no PCB or schematic changes are needed.

What is the thermal resistance from junction to ambient (R_JA) for BC557BRL1?

The BC557BRL1 has a maximum junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (R_JA) of 200°C/W when mounted on a standard FR-4 PCB with minimal copper area. This value assumes natural convection cooling and defines the worst-case temperature rise per milliwatt of dissipated power - critical for calculating safe operating power limits in enclosed or high-ambient-temperature applications.