onsemi BD140

Overview

BD140 from onsemi is a PNP epitaxial silicon power transistor in the BD136 series, rated for −80 V V_CEO, −1.5 A continuous collector current, and 12.5 W collector dissipation at T_C = 25°C; it serves as a complement to the BD139 NPN transistor in audio amplifier output stages and DC motor control circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BD140 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its TO-126 package, guaranteed h_FE ≥ 63 at I_C = −150 mA, V_CE(sat) ≤ −0.5 V at I_C = −500 mA / I_B = −50 mA, Pb-free compliance, and safe operating area (SOA) defined up to 10 s pulse width.

Technical Context

The BD140 operates as a medium-power PNP bipolar junction transistor with fixed gain structure optimized for linear and switching applications. Its V_CEO = −80 V and V_CBO = −80 V support high-voltage DC biasing in complementary push-pull configurations, while its 150°C maximum junction temperature enables operation in thermally constrained industrial enclosures.

Electrical behavior is characterized across three DC current gain test points: h_FE1 ≥ 25 at I_C = −5 mA, h_FE2 = 63–250 at I_C = −150 mA (depending on variant), and h_FE3 ≥ 25 at I_C = −500 mA - confirming stable gain over wide current range without thermal runaway under specified SOA limits.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BD140 is housed in a TO-126 (Case 340AS) plastic package with three leads: Emitter (Pin 1), Collector (Pin 2), Base (Pin 3). The flat side of the package faces the viewer when leads point downward; Pin 1 is leftmost.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MJD127 and 2N5401, BD140 offers through-hole TO-126 mounting, 12.5 W power handling, and proven ruggedness in industrial motor and audio applications where mechanical stability and thermal mass matter more than footprint size.

Availability

BD140 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio amplifier output stages, DC motor drivers, linear voltage regulator pass elements, and relay driver circuits requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle availability.

Supply support for BD140 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 focused on energy-efficient electronics, with leadership in power management, analog, sensors, and discrete devices.

The BD136 series-including BD140-is designed for medium-power linear and switching applications in industrial controls, consumer audio, and power conversion systems where robustness, thermal stability, and Pb-free compliance are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for BD140?

The BD140 has a maximum continuous collector current (I_C) rating of −1.5 A at T_C = 25°C. This value assumes adequate heatsinking; actual usable current decreases with rising case temperature per the derating curve in Figure 5 of the BD136/D datasheet. For reliable operation, design must ensure junction temperature remains ≤150°C. BD140 is not rated for pulsed currents beyond −3.0 A peak.

Does BD140 have a guaranteed minimum h_FE at high current?

Yes, BD140 guarantees h_FE2 ≥ 63 at V_CE = −2 V and I_C = −150 mA for the BD14016 variant (e.g., BD14016STU). At I_C = −500 mA, h_FE3 ≥ 25 is specified. These values are measured under pulsed conditions (PW = 350 µs, duty cycle = 2%) to avoid self-heating effects, ensuring consistent gain behavior in real-world switching and linear applications.

What is the pin configuration of BD140 in TO-126 package?

When viewing the BD140 TO-126 package with the flat side facing you and leads pointing downward, Pin 1 (leftmost) is Emitter, Pin 2 (center) is Collector, and Pin 3 (rightmost) is Base. This configuration matches the marking diagram in the BD136/D datasheet and is standardized across the BD136 series. Correct orientation is critical to avoid reverse-bias damage during circuit operation.

Is BD140 suitable for use in Class AB audio amplifier output stages?

Yes, BD140 is specifically intended for complementary Class AB output stages, serving as the PNP counterpart to BD139. Its −80 V V_CEO, 12.5 W power dissipation, and SOA validated up to 10 s pulses make it suitable for handling reactive speaker loads and transient peaks. When paired with BD139 and properly biased, BD140 delivers low-distortion, thermally stable audio output in 10–20 W amplifier designs.

What does the "16" suffix in BD14016STU indicate?

The "16" in BD14016STU denotes the h_FE gain bin: BD14016 devices are binned for h_FE2 = 100–250 at I_C = −150 mA, whereas BD14010 variants are binned for h_FE2 = 63–160. The "STU" suffix indicates tape-and-reel packaging (60 units/tube, Pb-free). This binning allows designers to select gain-matched pairs for differential or push-pull circuits requiring tight h_FE symmetry.