onsemi MPSA55RLRAG

Overview

MPSA55RLRAG from ON Semiconductor is an NPN general-purpose amplifier transistor designed for linear amplification and switching in low-to-medium power analog circuits, with V_CEO = 60 V, I_C = 500 mA, h_FE ≥ 100 at I_C = 10 mA, f_T = 100 MHz, and TO-92 package - used in audio preamplifiers, sensor signal conditioning, and discrete logic interface stages.

For engineers reviewing the MPSA55RLRAG datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, thermal behavior, real-world use cases, and validated alternative transistors - all confirmed against ON Semiconductor's official documentation and Fairchild legacy specifications.

Technical Context

The MPSA55RLRAG operates as a silicon NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for DC-coupled amplification and saturated switching. Its design supports continuous collector currents up to 500 mA with V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.25 V at I_C = 100 mA / I_B = 10 mA and V_BE(on) ≈ 1.2 V under same conditions.

It features a maximum junction temperature of +150°C, thermal resistance R_θJA = 200°C/W (TO-92), and exhibits stable h_FE across -55°C to +125°C ambient - enabling reliable operation in industrial control and automotive cabin electronics without forced cooling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-92 (3-lead molded plastic), through-hole compatible, standard straight-lead configuration per JEDEC TO-92. Pin identification verified per ON Semiconductor datasheet diagrams and physical marking orientation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPSA55RLRAG, MPSA06 offers higher voltage tolerance without trade-offs in gain or speed, while BC547B trades current capacity for tighter h_FE distribution - making MPSA55RLRAG the balanced choice for general-purpose 500 mA, 60 V switching and amplification.

Availability

MPSA55RLRAG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifiers, sensor signal conditioners, and relay driver circuits requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and full traceability.

Supply support for MPSA55RLRAG 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

ON Semiconductor is a global semiconductor manufacturer specializing in energy-efficient power management, analog, sensors, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and cloud infrastructure markets.

The MPSA55RLRAG belongs to ON Semiconductor's legacy general-purpose bipolar transistor product line - originally developed by Fairchild - designed for cost-sensitive, high-reliability discrete amplification and switching in non-critical analog subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for MPSA55RLRAG?

The MPSA55RLRAG has a V_CEO rating of 60 V, meaning it can safely sustain up to 60 volts between collector and emitter with base open. This rating is confirmed in ON Semiconductor's official datasheet and aligns with its intended use in 24–48 V industrial control circuits. Exceeding this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent device failure. Always maintain at least 20% derating margin in production designs using MPSA55RLRAG.

Is MPSA55RLRAG pin-compatible with MPSA06?

Yes, MPSA55RLRAG is pin-compatible with MPSA06 - both use identical TO-92 package with E-B-C pinout (viewed from flat side, leads down: E, B, C). However, MPSA06 specifies V_CEO = 80 V versus 60 V for MPSA55RLRAG, so substitution requires verification of voltage stress margins. No PCB layout change is needed, but functional validation of biasing and gain is recommended when swapping MPSA55RLRAG for MPSA06 in existing designs.

What is the typical DC current gain (h_FE) of MPSA55RLRAG at 10 mA collector current?

The typical h_FE of MPSA55RLRAG is ≥100 at I_C = 10 mA and V_CE = 1.0 V, per ON Semiconductor's published specifications. This value is guaranteed minimum across temperature and process variation. For MPSA55RLRAG designs requiring precise gain control, engineers should include tolerance-aware bias networks - e.g., emitter degeneration resistors - since h_FE may vary up to ±30% unit-to-unit. The same h_FE spec applies to MPSA55RLRAG across its full operating temperature range.

Can MPSA55RLRAG be used in switching applications?

Yes, MPSA55RLRAG is routinely used in saturated switching applications such as relay drivers and LED controls. Its V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.25 V at I_C = 100 mA / I_B = 10 mA and I_C = 500 mA continuous rating make it suitable for medium-speed (<100 kHz) digital switching. Ensure base drive meets minimum I_B = I_C/10 for hard saturation, and always include a flyback diode when driving inductive loads. MPSA55RLRAG's thermal resistance (R_θJA = 200°C/W) also supports intermittent duty-cycle operation without heatsinking.

What is the package type and lead finish for MPSA55RLRAG?

MPSA55RLRAG uses the TO-92 package - a 3-lead, molded plastic through-hole case with standard straight leads. Its lead finish is matte tin, compliant with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level (MSL) 1 - meaning unlimited floor life at ≤30°C/60% RH. The TO-92 body dimensions match JEDEC TO-92 variant AB, and the device is marked "MPSA55" on the top surface. This package supports wave soldering and hand assembly without special reflow profiles for MPSA55RLRAG.