onsemi MPSA18_D74Z
- Part No.:
- MPSA18_D74Z
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA) Formed Leads
- Datasheet:
-
MPSA18_D74Z.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 45V 0.1A TO-92-3
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,824
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Product details
Overview
MPSA18_D74Z from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose amplifier transistor optimized for low-noise, high-gain signal amplification at collector currents from 1 µA to 50 mA. It features VCEO = 45 V, hFE = 500–1500 (at IC = 1–10 mA), fT = 100 MHz, NF = 1.5 dB, and TO-92 radial ammo packaging (EOL code D74Z). It is used in audio preamplifier stages and sensor interface circuits.
For engineers reviewing the MPSA18_D74Z datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include verified low-noise performance at microamp bias, guaranteed hFE minimum across operating current range, thermal resistance (RθJA = 200 °C/W), TO-92 mechanical compatibility, and EOL-specific tape-and-reel configuration (D74Z = radial ammo, flat-on-top, collector-first lead orientation).
Technical Context
The MPSA18_D74Z implements a silicon planar epitaxial NPN structure with process-controlled base width to achieve high current gain and low noise figure. Its design targets linear small-signal amplification rather than switching, evidenced by specified fT, Ccb = 3.0 pF, and NF = 1.5 dB at 1 kHz.
It operates within a junction temperature range of –55°C to +150°C and is rated for continuous collector current up to 100 mA with PD = 625 mW at 25°C. Derating is required above 25°C at 5.0 mW/°C, consistent with its TO-92 package thermal characteristics (RθJC = 83.3 °C/W, RθJA = 200 °C/W).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | 45 V - Maximum safe collector-emitter voltage before breakdown under open-base conditions; defines usable supply headroom in amplifier designs. |
| hFE | 500–1500 - DC current gain range at VCE = 5 V and IC = 1–10 mA; enables stable biasing in common-emitter configurations without excessive base drive. |
| fT | 100 MHz - Unity-gain bandwidth; supports audio and low-RF amplification up to ~10 MHz with usable gain margin. |
| NF | 1.5 dB - Noise figure at VCE = 5 V, IC = 100 µA, RS = 10 kΩ, 1 kHz; confirms suitability for low-level signal amplification where SNR preservation is critical. |
| PD | 625 mW - Maximum steady-state power dissipation at 25°C; sets thermal limits for PCB layout and heatsinking in linear operation. |
| Ccb | 3.0 pF - Collector-base capacitance at VCB = 5 V, 1 MHz; contributes to Miller effect and high-frequency roll-off; enables stability analysis in feedback amplifier designs. |
Pinout & Package
Package: TO-92 radial ammo (EOL code D74Z), with flat side oriented upward and collector as the first lead exiting the package. Lead configuration follows standard TO-92 pinout: Emitter (lead 1), Base (lead 2), Collector (lead 3) when viewed with flat side facing outward and leads downward.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Lead 1 (Emitter) | Current sink terminal | Reference node for bias network; connects to ground or emitter degeneration resistor in common-emitter topology. |
| Lead 2 (Base) | Control input terminal | Receives base current to modulate collector current; requires impedance-matched drive for low-noise operation. |
| Lead 3 (Collector) | Current source terminal | Delivers amplified output current; connects to load resistor or next stage; voltage swing limited by VCEO rating. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low-noise amplification | NF = 1.5 dB at 1 kHz enables high-fidelity signal recovery in microphone preamps and sensor front-ends. |
| High DC current gain | hFE ≥ 500 at IC = 1 mA ensures stable bias point with minimal base current variation across unit-to-unit spread. |
| Wide gain-bandwidth product | fT = 100 MHz supports broadband analog signal conditioning up to mid-audio frequencies with predictable phase response. |
| Robust thermal rating | Junction temperature range of –55°C to +150°C allows deployment in industrial and automotive under-hood environments. |
Applications
| Audio Preamplifier Stage | Temperature Sensor Interface |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Amplifying weak signals from electret microphones or magnetic pickups prior to ADC sampling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN small-signal amplifier in common-emitter configuration with emitter degeneration. Use Value: Low NF (1.5 dB) and high hFE preserve signal integrity and reduce required gain staging, minimizing total system noise floor. | Use Scenario: Linear amplification of millivolt-level outputs from thermistor or RTD bridge circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Transconductance amplifier converting resistance change into proportional voltage swing. Use Value: Stable hFE across 1–10 mA ensures repeatable gain calibration; low VCE(sat) (0.2 V) maintains linearity over wide temperature range. |
| RF Detector Front-End | Low-Power Oscillator Core |
Use Scenario: First-stage amplification in AM/FM receiver IF strips or crystal detector buffers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-fT (100 MHz) NPN active device in tuned amplifier or cascode configuration. Use Value: Ccb = 3.0 pF and fT = 100 MHz enable stable gain up to 10–20 MHz with controlled bandwidth and minimal parasitic resonance. | Use Scenario: Active element in Colpitts or Hartley oscillator designs for clock generation in low-power embedded systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Gain block sustaining oscillation at fundamental frequency via positive feedback. Use Value: Verified fT and low Ceb (6.5 pF) support reliable startup and frequency stability at 1–10 MHz without external compensation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN amplifier applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2N5088 | Identical electrical specs per Fairchild documentation; same Process 07, same VCEO/hFE/NF/fT ratings. | No functional difference; used interchangeably in low-noise preamp designs. | Select 2N5088 only if D74Z packaging is unavailable; identical performance but different EOL marking and reel format. |
| BC549C | Lower VCEO (30 V vs. 45 V); hFE min = 420 (vs. 500); NF = 4 dB (vs. 1.5 dB); fT = 300 MHz (higher but noisier). | Less suitable for high-SNR, high-headroom applications; better for general-purpose switching or higher-frequency non-critical gain. | Choose BC549C only when lower voltage operation and relaxed noise requirements apply; not drop-in for MPSA18_D74Z in audio-sensitive designs. |
Compared with 2N5088 and BC549C, the MPSA18_D74Z delivers superior noise performance and higher voltage tolerance while maintaining proven reliability in TO-92 radial ammo form factor-critical for automated assembly of precision analog boards requiring traceable, low-variation gain devices.
Availability
MPSA18_D74Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifiers, sensor signal conditioning, and RF detector front-ends requiring stable component supply, consistent hFE distribution, and low-noise transistor performance.
Supply support for MPSA18_D74Z 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 MPSA18_D74Z belongs to Fairchild's legacy NPN general-purpose amplifier family, designed specifically for low-noise, high-gain linear amplification in consumer, industrial, and instrumentation applications where signal fidelity and bias stability are essential.
FAQ
What is the pin configuration of the MPSA18_D74Z?
The MPSA18_D74Z uses standard TO-92 pinout: when viewed with the flat side facing outward and leads pointing down, Lead 1 is Emitter, Lead 2 is Base, and Lead 3 is Collector. This matches EOL code D74Z specification: radial ammo packaging with flat-on-top orientation and collector-first lead exit.
Does the MPSA18_D74Z meet RoHS requirements?
Yes, the MPSA18_D74Z complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. Fairchild's TO-92 devices manufactured after 2006-including MPSA18_D74Z-are lead-free, with matte tin-plated leads and halogen-free molding compound, as confirmed in Fairchild's official compliance documentation and packaging labels.
What is the maximum safe operating collector current for the MPSA18_D74Z?
The MPSA18_D74Z has an absolute maximum continuous collector current (IC) rating of 100 mA. However, for reliable linear amplification, operation is recommended between 1 µA and 50 mA per datasheet guidance-exceeding 50 mA risks gain compression and increased noise without thermal derating.
How does the noise figure of the MPSA18_D74Z compare to other TO-92 NPN transistors?
The MPSA18_D74Z achieves NF = 1.5 dB at 1 kHz, which is among the lowest for TO-92 packaged NPN transistors. For comparison, BC549C specifies NF = 4 dB and PN2222A specifies NF ≈ 10 dB under similar conditions-making MPSA18_D74Z preferred for ultra-low-noise front-end stages.
Is the MPSA18_D74Z suitable for switching applications?
The MPSA18_D74Z is not optimized for switching-it lacks fast turn-off characteristics, has relatively high Ceb (6.5 pF), and is characterized for linear gain and noise, not saturation voltage or storage time. While it can switch at low frequencies (<100 kHz), dedicated switching transistors like PN2222A or MMBT2222 offer better VCE(sat) and speed for digital logic interfaces.
MPSA18_D74Z Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA) Formed Leads
- Packaging:
- Tape & Box (TB)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Transistor Type:
- NPN
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 100 mA
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 45 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 300mV @ 5mA, 50mA
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 50nA (ICBO)
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 500 @ 10mA, 5V
- Power - Max:
- 625 mW
- Frequency - Transition:
- 100MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-92-3
MPSA18_D74Z FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MPSA18_D74Z through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MPSA18_D74Z 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 MPSA18_D74Z reliable?
The price and inventory of MPSA18_D74Z are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MPSA18_D74Z is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MPSA18_D74Z?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MPSA18_D74Z transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MPSA18_D74Z?
MPSA18_D74Z orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MPSA18_D74Z 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 MPSA18_D74Z?
For technical support, including MPSA18_D74Z datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MPSA18_D74Z requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MPSA18_D74Z is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MPSA18_D74Z 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 MPSA18_D74Z meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MPSA18_D74Z?
All MPSA18_D74Z units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MPSA18_D74Z, 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 MPSA18_D74Z part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MPSA18_D74Z:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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