onsemi BF422
- Part No.:
- BF422
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 Long Body
- Datasheet:
-
BF422.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 250V 0.05A TO92
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,296
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BF422 from onsemi is an NPN silicon high-voltage transistor in TO-92 package, rated for 250 VCEO, 250 VCBO, 5.0 VEBO, 50 mA continuous collector current, and 830 mW power dissipation at 25°C - designed for high-voltage switching and amplifier stages in CRT deflection, relay drivers, and pulse generators.
For engineers reviewing the BF422 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include verified VCEO/VCBO ratings, hFE ≥50 at 25 mA/20 V, fT = 60 MHz, Cre = 1.6 pF, and thermal resistance RJA = 150 °C/W under standard FR4 mounting conditions.
Technical Context
The BF422 operates as a general-purpose NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for high-voltage linear and switching applications where breakdown voltage and moderate gain stability are critical. Its 250 V rating enables use in flyback snubbers and horizontal deflection circuits without cascading devices.
It features a fixed three-terminal structure (Emitter–Collector–Base), with DC current gain hFE specified at 50 (min) under 25 mA IC and 20 V VCE, and saturation voltages VCE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V and VBE(sat) ≤ 2.0 V at IC/IB = 10 - confirming suitability for low-loss switching with modest base drive.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | 250 Vdc - supports operation in 200 V-class supply rails with margin for transient spikes |
| VCBO | 250 Vdc - ensures safe collector-base reverse bias in high-side switch configurations |
| IC (continuous) | 50 mAdc - defines maximum steady-state load current before thermal derating applies |
| hFE | ≥50 at IC = 25 mA, VCE = 20 V - provides predictable base drive requirements for saturated switching |
| fT | 60 MHz - enables stable amplification up to mid-VHF range in tuned RF stages |
| Cre | 1.6 pF at VCB = 30 V - limits Miller feedback in high-speed switching, reducing turn-off delay |
| RJA | 150 °C/W - requires heatsinking or layout copper for sustained >300 mW dissipation |
Pinout & Package
Package: TO-92 (Case 29, Style 14), through-hole, Pb-free option available (BF422ZL1G). Standard lead form with 0.1" pitch, 5 mm lead length, and 200 mm² 1 oz copper pad per JEDEC mounting condition.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Emitter | Reference terminal for current flow; connected to ground or low-side return path in common-emitter configuration |
| 2 | Collector | High-voltage output node; handles full VCEO stress and carries load current |
| 3 | Base | Control input; requires ~2.0 V forward bias and ~2 mA drive for full saturation at 20 mA IC |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| High VCEO/VCBO | 250 V rating enables direct interface with 170–200 VDC bus lines in CRT and industrial power supplies |
| Stable hFE over temperature | hFE maintained across −55°C to +125°C per Figure 4, supporting reliable gain in wide-temperature environments |
| Low Cre | 1.6 pF minimizes capacitive coupling between collector and base, improving switching speed and stability in high-gain stages |
| Pb-free packaging | BF422ZL1G variant complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1 |
Applications
| Horizontal Deflection Circuits | Relay Drivers |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Horizontal output stage in CRT-based oscilloscopes and legacy monitors requiring fast switching at 15.625 kHz with 200–250 V swing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN switching transistor operating in common-emitter mode with active clamp and snubber network. Use Value: 250 VCEO withstands flyback voltage peaks; 60 MHz fT ensures clean edge fidelity at line frequency. | Use Scenario: Solid-state replacement for electromechanical relays controlling 24–48 VDC industrial loads up to 50 mA. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power, high-voltage switch interfacing microcontroller GPIO to inductive coil. Use Value: VCE(sat) ≤ 0.5 V reduces coil power loss; 150 °C/W RJA allows operation on standard PCB without heatsink. |
| Pulse Generators | High-Voltage Amplifier Stages |
Use Scenario: Monostable multivibrator and pulse shaper in test equipment generating <100 ns rise-time pulses into 50 Ω loads. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-switching NPN used in emitter-follower or grounded-base topology for pulse sharpening. Use Value: 1.6 pF Cre and 60 MHz fT jointly support sub-10 ns propagation delay in optimized layouts. | Use Scenario: First-stage preamplifier in photomultiplier tube (PMT) signal conditioning chains handling 100–200 V bias rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-input-impedance common-emitter amplifier with active load or resistive collector termination. Use Value: 250 VCBO isolates base from high-voltage collector node; hFE ≥50 ensures ≥10 dB small-signal gain at 1 MHz. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-voltage NPN transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BF420 | Higher VCEO/VCBO (300 V), same hFE, identical TO-92 package and pinout | Suitable where 300 V margin is required (e.g., 250 V bus with >50 V transients) | Select BF420 when system-level surge testing exceeds 250 V or when design reuse across BF420/BF422 platforms is needed |
| MPSA42 | Same VCEO = 300 V, higher IC = 500 mA, larger TO-92 variant (Case 29-10), different pinout (E-B-C vs E-C-B) | Used in higher-current HV switching (e.g., neon sign drivers); not pin-compatible | Choose MPSA42 only if board layout accommodates revised pinout and thermal mass supports 625 mW dissipation |
Compared with BF422, BF420 offers higher voltage headroom without layout change, while MPSA42 delivers greater current capacity but requires PCB revision due to reversed base/collector pins and larger thermal footprint.
Availability
BF422 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for horizontal deflection circuits, relay drivers, pulse generators, and high-voltage amplifier stages requiring stable component supply with RoHS-compliant packaging options including BF422ZL1G.
Supply support for BF422 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 BF422 belongs to onsemi's high-voltage discrete transistor family, engineered specifically for reliability-critical analog and switching functions in legacy display systems, industrial controls, and instrumentation where voltage robustness and parameter consistency are prioritized over ultra-high speed.
FAQ
What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for BF422?
The BF422 has a guaranteed minimum VCEO rating of 250 Vdc under test condition IC = 1.0 mAdc and IB = 0. This rating is validated per onsemi's BF420/D datasheet Rev. 4 and applies to the BF422ZL1G variant. Operation above this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent degradation of the BF422 junction integrity.
Is BF422 pin-compatible with BF420?
Yes, BF422 is fully pin-compatible with BF420: both use TO-92 package (Style 14) with identical pin 1 (Emitter), pin 2 (Collector), pin 3 (Base) assignment and mechanical dimensions. The BF422 and BF420 share identical footprint, soldering profile, and mounting requirements - enabling drop-in substitution where 250 V rating suffices.
What is the typical DC current gain (hFE) of BF422 at operating conditions?
The BF422 specifies hFE ≥ 50 at IC = 25 mAdc and VCE = 20 Vdc per the official onsemi BF420/D datasheet. Measured values typically range from 50 to 120 depending on batch and junction temperature; design margins should assume the minimum 50 value for worst-case base drive calculation in the BF422 circuit.
Does BF422 support Pb-free assembly processes?
Yes, the BF422ZL1G variant is explicitly designated as Pb-free and complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. It uses matte tin lead finish and meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1, allowing standard reflow profiles without pre-bake for the BF422ZL1G part number.
What thermal resistance does BF422 exhibit under standard PCB mounting?
When mounted on a FR4 board with 200 mm² of 1 oz copper and 5 mm lead length (per Note 1 in the BF420/D datasheet), the BF422 exhibits RJA = 150 °C/W. This value governs junction-to-ambient temperature rise during continuous operation and must be applied to calculate maximum allowable power dissipation at elevated ambient temperatures for the BF422.
BF422 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 Long Body
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Transistor Type:
- NPN
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 50 mA
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 250 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 500mV @ 2mA, 20mA
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- -
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 50 @ 25mA, 20V
- Power - Max:
- 830 mW
- Frequency - Transition:
- 60MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-92 (TO-226)
BF422 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BF422 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BF422 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for BF422 reliable?
The price and inventory of BF422 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BF422 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BF422?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BF422 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BF422?
BF422 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BF422 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for BF422?
For technical support, including BF422 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BF422 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BF422 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BF422 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that BF422 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BF422?
All BF422 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BF422, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The BF422 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BF422:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BF422 Tags

-
MMBT3906LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT3904-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMBT3904LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT3906-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMBT3904-TP
Micro Commercial Co

-
MMBT2222A-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BC846BLT1G
onsemi

-
BC847B,215
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
SMMBT3904LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT2222A-TP
Micro Commercial Co

-
MMBTA06LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT2222ALT1G
onsemi
Tech Hub
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…

,TO-226_straightlead.jpg)