onsemi BC560C

Overview

BC560C from onsemi is a PNP epitaxial silicon transistor optimized for low-noise amplification and general-purpose switching, with V_CEO = −45 V, h_FE = 420–800 (Class C), f_T = 150 MHz, and V_BE(on) = −600 to −750 mV at I_C = −2 mA - used in audio preamplifier stages, sensor signal conditioning, and discrete logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC560C datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its low-noise figure (1.2–2.0 dB at 1 kHz), TO-92-3 package compatibility, Class C h_FE gain binning, and complementarity to BC546–BC550 NPN series in push-pull designs.

Technical Context

The BC560C operates as a medium-power, low-noise PNP bipolar junction transistor with fixed-emitter biasing capability and DC current gain controlled by base current injection. Its junction temperature rating of 150°C and thermal resistance R_JA = 250°C/W support operation in ambient temperatures up to +125°C with appropriate PCB copper area.

It features low output capacitance (C_ob = 6 pF at V_CB = −10 V), fast switching response enabled by f_T = 150 MHz, and saturation voltages of V_CE(sat) = −250 to −650 mV at I_C = −100 mA / I_B = −5 mA - enabling efficient use in active-load amplifiers and saturated-switch configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BC560C is housed in a TO-92-3 plastic package (Case 135AR), with leads formed for through-hole mounting. Dimensions: 4.83 mm × 4.76 mm footprint, 4.825 mm height. Lead spacing conforms to JEDEC TO-92 standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BC559C and MMBT560C, the BC560C uniquely balances −45 V breakdown, 500 mW power handling, and Class C gain consistency - making it the preferred choice for through-hole, medium-voltage, low-noise amplifier designs where thermal margin and supply headroom are design-critical.

Availability

BC560C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifier stages, sensor signal conditioning circuits, and discrete logic interface designs requiring stable component supply, long-term obsolescence resilience, and RoHS-compliant through-hole assembly.

Supply support for BC560C 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 management, analog, sensing, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The BC560C belongs to onsemi's legacy BC5xx PNP/NPN complementary transistor family, engineered for cost-sensitive, high-reliability analog signal path and discrete switching applications where predictable gain, low noise, and manufacturability are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BC560C?

The BC560C has a guaranteed V_CEO rating of −45 V at T_A = 25°C. This allows safe operation in circuits with up to ±40 V supply rails when proper derating is applied above ambient temperature. Exceeding this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent device failure. The BC560C datasheet specifies this value in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table and confirms it across all Class C variants.

How does BC560C differ from BC559C in practical circuit design?

The BC560C differs from BC559C primarily in its higher V_CEO (−45 V vs. −30 V) and identical low-noise performance (1.2–2.0 dB). In practice, BC560C enables use in higher-voltage analog stages - such as 36 V industrial sensor interfaces - where BC559C would risk premature breakdown. Both share the same h_FE Class C range and TO-92-3 package, allowing drop-in replacement only when voltage margins permit.

Is BC560C suitable for low-noise audio amplifier applications?

Yes, BC560C is explicitly characterized for low-noise operation with a noise figure of 1.2–2.0 dB at 1 kHz (V_CE = −5 V, I_C = −200 µA, R_G = 2 kΩ). This makes it well-suited for microphone preamplifiers, phono stage inputs, and other high-gain, low-level analog signal paths where minimizing added noise is critical to overall system SNR.

What is the thermal resistance and power derating behavior of BC560C?

The BC560C has a specified thermal resistance R_JA of 250°C/W and a maximum power dissipation P_D of 500 mW at T_A = 25°C. Power must be linearly derated at 4.0 mW/°C above 25°C ambient - meaning at 75°C ambient, maximum allowable dissipation drops to 300 mW. This behavior is validated in the Thermal Characteristics section of the official onsemi datasheet.

Does BC560C have a Pb-free and RoHS-compliant package?

Yes, BC560C is manufactured in a Pb-free, halogen-free/BFR-free TO-92-3 package (Case 135AR) and is fully RoHS compliant per EU Directive 2011/65/EU. This is confirmed in the Features section and Ordering Information table of the onsemi datasheet, and the device carries the "Pb-Free" marking on its physical body.