BC238A

Single Bipolar Transistors Overview

The BC238A is a general-purpose NPN silicon small-signal transistor manufactured by onsemi. It features a collector-emitter voltage rating of 25 V and a continuous collector current capacity of 100 mA. The device utilizes a TO-92 plastic package with three pins. It offers a minimum DC current gain (hFE) of 120, ensuring reliable amplification performance. The maximum operating junction temperature reaches 150 °C, supporting robust operation in various electronic circuits.

Single Bipolar Transistors Feature Summary

• NPN silicon construction for general-purpose signal processing
• High DC current gain for effective amplification applications
• Robust thermal stability up to 150 °C junction temperature

Single Bipolar Transistors Applications

• General-purpose amplifier circuits
• Switching applications
• Audio pre-amplifier stages

Single Bipolar Transistors Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'RLRE' or similar against the requested 'BC238A' base part number to ensure exact electrical matching. Confirm lead-free status requirements as older variants may not be RoHS compliant. Check for obsolescence notices from onsemi before finalizing procurement plans.

Single Bipolar Transistors Selection Notes

Select this component when a standard NPN transistor with 25 V breakdown and 100 mA current handling is required. Ensure the application does not exceed the 350 mW total device dissipation limit at 25 °C ambient temperature. Consider the TO-92 package constraints for thermal management in high-density designs.

Single Bipolar Transistors Part Context

This component belongs to the BC237/BC238/BC239 family of NPN transistors. These devices are widely used in consumer electronics and industrial control systems. The BC238 variant specifically targets applications requiring moderate voltage ratings and standard current capabilities within a compact through-hole package.

Single Bipolar Transistors Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers include BC238B, BC238C, BC239, and BC237. Verify pinout compatibility and hFE binning differences before substitution.