onsemi MPS6515

Overview

MPS6515 from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose bipolar junction transistor (BJT) designed for amplification and switching in low-power analog and digital circuits, with V_CEO = 25 V, I_C = 200 mA continuous, h_FE = 250–500 at 2 mA, f_T = 100 MHz, and SOT-23/TO-92 dual-package availability. It operates across –55°C to +150°C and is commonly used in signal buffering, discrete logic interfaces, and low-current load switching.

For engineers reviewing the MPS6515 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its 25 V V_CEO, 200 mA I_C rating, 100 MHz f_T, SOT-23/TO-92 package options, and verified h_FE range under defined bias conditions - all critical for discrete amplifier staging and low-side switch design.

Technical Context

The MPS6515 is a silicon NPN BJT optimized for general-purpose linear amplification and saturated switching. Its DC current gain (h_FE) varies from 250 (min) at I_C = 2 mA to 150 (min) at I_C = 100 mA, confirming usable gain across a 50× collector current range. The device achieves 100 MHz transition frequency (f_T) and exhibits low output capacitance (C_obo = 3.5 pF), supporting RF-capable small-signal operation up to VHF band edges.

Thermal performance is defined by R_θJA = 200°C/W (SOT-23) and 357°C/W (TO-92), with P_D = 625 mW (SOT-23) and 350 mW (TO-92). Absolute maximum ratings include V_CBO = 40 V, V_EBO = 4.0 V, and T_J = –55°C to +150°C, enabling robust operation in industrial ambient environments.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Available in both SOT-23 (surface-mount) and TO-92 (through-hole) packages. SOT-23 marking is "3J"; TO-92 marking not specified. Both variants share identical pinout: Pin 1 = Base, Pin 2 = Emitter, Pin 3 = Collector.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN general-purpose amplifier and switch applications.

Compared with MMBT3904 and BC846B, the MPS6515 uniquely balances 200 mA I_C, 25 V V_CEO, and dual-package flexibility - making it optimal for cost-sensitive industrial controls requiring both through-hole serviceability and SMT scalability.

Availability

MPS6515 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio pre-amplification, microcontroller GPIO interfacing, RF detector front-ends, and industrial sensor signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle embedded programs.

Supply support for MPS6515 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 management, analog, and discrete components before its acquisition by ON Semiconductor in 2016.

The MPS6515 belongs to Fairchild's legacy general-purpose BJT product line, engineered for broad utility in analog signal conditioning, discrete logic translation, and low-power switching across consumer, industrial, and communications equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current for the MPS6515?

The MPS6515 supports a maximum continuous collector current (I_C) of 200 mA at T_A = 25°C. This rating applies to both SOT-23 and TO-92 packages, though thermal derating must be applied above 25°C per the specified 5.0 mW/°C (SOT-23) or 2.8 mW/°C (TO-92) derating factors. Operation at full I_C requires attention to PCB copper area and ambient temperature to maintain T_J ≤ 150°C.

Does the MPS6515 have a specified transition frequency (f_T)?

Yes, the MPS6515 has a specified transition frequency (f_T) of 100 MHz. This value is confirmed in Fairchild's official datasheet and reflects the frequency at which the small-signal current gain drops to unity under standard test conditions (I_C = 10 mA, V_CE = 10 V). The 100 MHz f_T makes the MPS6515 suitable for VHF-band amplification and high-speed switching applications.

What are the package options for the MPS6515?

The MPS6515 is offered in two industry-standard packages: SOT-23 (surface-mount) and TO-92 (through-hole). Both share identical electrical characteristics and pinout (Pin 1 = Base, Pin 2 = Emitter, Pin 3 = Collector), with SOT-23 marked "3J". The SOT-23 variant has higher power dissipation (625 mW) and lower thermal resistance, while TO-92 provides mechanical robustness and hand-soldering compatibility.

What is the DC current gain (h_FE) range for the MPS6515?

The MPS6515 exhibits a DC current gain (h_FE) range of 250–500 at I_C = 2.0 mA and V_CE = 10 V, and 150–500 at I_C = 100 mA and V_CE = 10 V. These values are measured and guaranteed per Fairchild's datasheet and reflect typical performance across the qualified production lot. Designers should use the minimum h_FE (250 at 2 mA, 150 at 100 mA) for worst-case base drive calculations.

Is the MPS6515 suitable for use in automotive applications?

The MPS6515 is rated for junction temperatures from –55°C to +150°C and meets industrial reliability standards, but it is not AEC-Q101 qualified. While it has been deployed in non-safety-critical automotive subsystems (e.g., cabin lighting control, HVAC sensor interfaces), its use in safety-relevant or engine-compartment applications requires additional qualification testing. For production automotive designs, consult AEC-Q101-compliant alternatives unless full system-level validation is performed.