onsemi MPSW56RLRA

Overview

MPSW56RLRA from onsemi is a PNP silicon small-signal transistor rated for −80 V_CEO, −500 mA continuous collector current, and 1.0 W dissipation at T_A = 25°C, designed for general-purpose amplification and switching in low-power linear and saturated-mode circuits. It features h_FE ≥ 50 at I_C = −250 mA, V_CE(sat) ≤ −0.5 V, and f_T = 50 MHz, commonly used in audio preamplifiers, relay drivers, and discrete logic level translation.

For engineers reviewing the MPSW56RLRA datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its −80 V_CEO rating, TO-92 package thermal resistance (R_JA = 125°C/W), DC current gain at high I_C, and safe operating area limits under pulsed conditions.

Technical Context

The MPSW56RLRA operates as a medium-voltage, medium-current PNP bipolar junction transistor with fixed-emitter biasing capability and defined saturation characteristics. Its design supports linear amplification up to 50 MHz and robust switching with V_CE(sat) ≤ −0.5 V at I_C/I_B = 25, while maintaining stable h_FE across −55°C to +150°C junction temperature range.

Thermal performance is governed by R_JC = 50°C/W and R_JA = 125°C/W, enabling operation at full 1.0 W only with adequate PCB copper or heatsinking. The device exhibits C_obo = 15 pF at V_CB = −10 V, supporting moderate-frequency signal integrity in emitter-follower and common-emitter configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-92 (Case 29-10), through-hole, straight-lead variant, Pb-free compliant (per marking "G" suffix convention).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP small-signal transistor applications.

Compared with MPSW56RLRA, MPSW56RLRPG offers identical performance with certified Pb-free construction, while BC558B trades −80 V ruggedness for higher gain and speed in sub−30 V applications-making MPSW56RLRA the sole choice for medium-voltage industrial switching.

Availability

MPSW56RLRA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplifiers, relay driver circuits, and discrete level shifter designs requiring stable component supply, consistent TO-92 lead form, and −80 V breakdown margin.

Supply support for MPSW56RLRA 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 MPSW55/MPSW56 series was developed as cost-optimized, high-reliability PNP transistors for general-purpose amplification and switching in industrial controls, telecom interfaces, and legacy analog systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for MPSW56RLRA?

The MPSW56RLRA has a guaranteed minimum V_(BR)CEO of −80 Vdc at I_C = −1.0 mAdc and I_B = 0. This rating applies under DC or low-frequency conditions and defines the absolute maximum reverse-biased voltage the transistor can withstand before avalanche breakdown occurs in common-emitter configuration. Exceeding this value risks permanent damage.

Does MPSW56RLRA support switching operation, and what is its typical saturation voltage?

Yes, MPSW56RLRA is qualified for switching use with V_CE(sat) ≤ −0.5 Vdc at I_C = −250 mAdc and I_B = −10 mAdc. This low saturation voltage ensures minimal conduction loss and self-heating during on-state operation, making it suitable for relay drivers, LED switches, and other medium-current digital loads.

What package type and lead configuration does MPSW56RLRA use?

MPSW56RLRA uses the TO-92 (Case 29-10) through-hole package with straight leads and Pb-free finish. Pin 1 is Emitter, Pin 2 is Base, and Pin 3 is Collector-matching Style 17 in onsemi's mechanical outline documentation. The device ships in bulk packaging per ordering code.

How does the DC current gain (h_FE) of MPSW56RLRA vary with collector current?

MPSW56RLRA guarantees h_FE ≥ 50 at I_C = −250 mAdc and V_CE = −1.0 Vdc, and ≥ 100 at I_C = −50 mAdc under the same conditions. Gain decreases at higher currents due to emitter-bandwidth effects, as confirmed by Figure 1 in the official datasheet, which shows h_FE dropping to ~35 at −500 mA.

Is MPSW56RLRA suitable for audio-frequency amplification, and what is its bandwidth limit?

Yes, MPSW56RLRA supports audio-frequency amplification with a specified f_T of 50 MHz at I_C = −250 mAdc and V_CE = −5.0 Vdc. Its usable small-signal bandwidth exceeds 20 kHz by >3 decades, enabling high-fidelity preamp stages with stable gain and low distortion when properly biased and compensated.