onsemi KSA916YBU

Overview

KSA916YBU from onsemi is a PNP epitaxial silicon transistor designed for audio power amplification and driver-stage signal amplification, with −120 V collector–base/collector–emitter breakdown voltage, −800 mA continuous collector current, 120 MHz current gain bandwidth product, and TO-92 3-lead (Case 135AM) package.

For engineers reviewing the KSA916YBU datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its PNP polarity, high-voltage safe operating area, DC current gain classification (Y = 120–240 at IC = −100 mA), saturation voltage of ≤−1 V at −500 mA, and thermal resistance of 41 °C/W junction-to-case.

Technical Context

This device operates as a medium-power general-purpose PNP bipolar junction transistor optimized for linear amplification in audio output stages and medium-current switching in driver circuits. Its design supports stable operation up to 150 °C junction temperature and features low output capacitance (40 pF) and high f_T (120 MHz typical), enabling wideband signal handling without oscillation risk.

The KSA916YBU shares complementary pairing with the NPN KSC2316, allowing matched push-pull configurations in Class AB amplifier designs. Its TO-92 package provides mechanical compatibility with legacy through-hole PCB layouts while maintaining adequate thermal dissipation via case mounting (R_θJC = 41 °C/W).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-92 3-lead, Case 135AM (8.0 mm × 4.9 mm, lead-formed), Pb-free, through-hole mount.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MJD2955G and KSA733Y, the KSA916YBU uniquely balances TO-92 form factor, −120 V rating, 120 MHz f_T, and Y-bin h_FE - making it optimal for compact, high-fidelity audio drivers where thermal and frequency performance must coexist within legacy through-hole constraints.

Availability

KSA916YBU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio power amplifiers, driver-stage amplifiers, complementary push-pull pairs, and medium-voltage switching applications requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation.

Supply support for KSA916YBU 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, sensor, and logic solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The KSA916YBU belongs to onsemi's legacy discrete bipolar transistor family, engineered specifically for high-reliability audio and industrial linear amplification where voltage robustness, gain consistency, and thermal stability are critical.

FAQ

What is the pin configuration of the KSA916YBU?

The KSA916YBU uses a standard TO-92 3-lead package with pin 1 = Emitter, pin 2 = Collector, and pin 3 = Base. This configuration is confirmed in the official onsemi datasheet (Publication Order Number KSA916/D, Rev. 4) and matches the marking diagram showing "1: Emitter / 2: Collector / 3: Base". The KSA916YBU must be mounted with correct polarity to avoid reverse-bias damage in PNP operation.

Is the KSA916YBU RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the KSA916YBU is RoHS-compliant and Pb-free, as explicitly stated in the ordering information section of the onsemi datasheet: "KSA916YTA - TO-92 3 LF (Pb-Free)". The "LF" suffix denotes lead-free termination, and the device meets JEDEC J-STD-609 Category 1 requirements. The KSA916YBU is suitable for modern environmentally regulated production environments without exemption requests.

What does the 'Y' in KSA916YBU signify?

The 'Y' in KSA916YBU indicates the h_FE gain bin classification per the onsemi datasheet: h_FE2 = 120–240 at V_CE = −5 V and I_C = −100 mA. This tighter gain range improves predictability in bias-critical applications like Class AB amplifiers. The KSA916YBU's Y-bin ensures more uniform DC operating points across production units compared to the broader O-bin (80–160).

Can the KSA916YBU replace the KSA992 in an existing design?

No, the KSA916YBU is not a direct replacement for the KSA992. Although both are PNP TO-92 transistors, the KSA992 has V_CEO = −30 V and I_C = −200 mA - significantly lower ratings than the KSA916YBU's −120 V and −800 mA. Substituting the KSA916YBU may cause overdesign or unintended thermal derating; conversely, replacing KSA916YBU with KSA992 risks catastrophic failure under original voltage/current conditions.

What is the maximum safe operating area (SOA) limit for the KSA916YBU at 25°C ambient?

At T_A = 25°C, the KSA916YBU's DC safe operating area is bounded by V_CE ≤ −120 V, I_C ≤ −800 mA, and P_D ≤ 900 mW (with R_θJA = 130 °C/W). The SOA curve in Figure 5 of the onsemi datasheet confirms no second breakdown occurs below these limits. For reliable long-term operation, designers should maintain derated margins - especially in audio applications where peak currents exceed average values - ensuring the KSA916YBU remains within its defined SOA envelope.