onsemi BD13816STU

Overview

BD13816STU from Fairchild Semiconductor is a PNP epitaxial silicon transistor in TO-126 package, rated for -60 V V_CEO, -1.5 A continuous collector current, and 12.5 W case power dissipation at T_C=25°C, used in medium-power linear amplification and switching applications such as audio output stages and relay drivers.

For engineers reviewing the BD13816STU datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection factors include its h_FE classification (100–250 at I_C = -150 mA), V_CE(sat) of -0.5 V at I_C = -500 mA / I_B = -50 mA, and complementary pairing with BD137.

Technical Context

This PNP bipolar junction transistor operates in active, saturation, and cutoff regions with DC current gain specified across three test conditions: h_FE1 ≥25 at I_C = -5 mA, h_FE2 ≥25 at I_C = -0.5 A, and h_FE3 = 100–250 at I_C = -150 mA. Its safe operating area supports pulsed collector currents up to -3.0 A with 2% duty cycle.

V_CEO(sus) is rated at -60 V under I_C = -30 mA / I_B = 0, matching V_CEO absolute maximum rating. Thermal derating begins at T_C > 25°C, reducing power dissipation linearly to zero at T_C = 175°C per Figure 5.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BD13816STU uses the TO-126 plastic package with standardized 3-pin layout: emitter (pin 1), collector (pin 2), base (pin 3). The collector tab is electrically connected to pin 2 and serves as primary thermal path.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BD13816STU, BD138G offers identical electrical performance with updated environmental compliance, while MJD13005 trades gain and thermal efficiency for higher voltage rating and package isolation-neither is pin-compatible, requiring layout revision.

Availability

BD13816STU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio amplifiers, relay drivers, DC motor controllers, and linear regulators requiring stable component supply across industrial and embedded production cycles.

Supply support for BD13816STU 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 discrete devices, analog ICs, and interface solutions before its acquisition by ON Semiconductor in 2016.

BD13816STU belongs to the BD136/138/140 family of medium-power PNP transistors designed specifically for cost-sensitive linear and switching applications where robustness, consistent h_FE grading, and TO-126 thermal performance are essential.

FAQ

What is the h_FE classification of BD13816STU and how is it tested?

The BD13816STU has h_FE classification "16", meaning its h_FE3 parameter is guaranteed between 100 and 250 when measured at V_CE = -2 V and I_C = -150 mA. This classification is verified during production test using pulsed DC conditions to avoid self-heating effects, ensuring consistent bias behavior in amplifier and driver circuits using BD13816STU.

Can BD13816STU replace BD138 in existing designs?

Yes, BD13816STU is a direct variant of the BD138 series with identical absolute maximum ratings, electrical characteristics, and TO-126 package. The "16" suffix denotes h_FE binning (100–250), so BD13816STU may be substituted for generic BD138 parts where that gain range is acceptable. Always verify bias network compatibility in linear applications using BD13816STU.

What is the maximum safe pulsed collector current for BD13816STU?

BD13816STU supports a maximum pulsed collector current of -3.0 A under pulse test conditions of PW = 350 µs and duty cycle = 2%. Exceeding this limit risks second breakdown or thermal runaway. For repetitive pulses, ensure average power remains within the derated P_C curve shown in Figure 5 of the BD13816STU datasheet.

Is BD13816STU RoHS compliant?

No, BD13816STU is not RoHS compliant. It is a legacy Fairchild part manufactured prior to RoHS enforcement and contains lead in solder and die attach. For RoHS-compliant alternatives, consider BD138G or MJD13005, both of which meet current environmental regulations while maintaining functional equivalence in most applications using BD13816STU.

How does the TO-126 package of BD13816STU affect thermal design?

The TO-126 package of BD13816STU features an exposed collector tab that serves as the primary thermal conduction path. To achieve the rated 12.5 W dissipation, the tab must be mounted to a heatsink with thermal interface material and mechanical pressure. Without heatsinking, BD13816STU is limited to 1.25 W at T_A = 25°C. PCB copper area alone is insufficient for full-power operation of BD13816STU.