BC546A TRE TIN/LEAD

Single Bipolar Transistors Overview

The BC546A TRE TIN/LEAD is an NPN epitaxial silicon small-signal transistor manufactured by Central Semiconductor Corp. It utilizes a TO-92 (TO-226AA) leaded package with tin/lead terminal finishes. The device features a collector-emitter breakdown voltage of 65 V and a maximum continuous collector current of 100 mA. It offers a minimum DC current gain (hFE) of 100 in the 'A' grade bin. Thermal characteristics include a maximum junction temperature of 175°C and a total power dissipation of 625 mW at 25°C ambient.

Single Bipolar Transistors Feature Summary

• High-voltage capability suitable for general-purpose switching and amplification
• Low-noise performance optimized for audio and signal processing applications
• Complementary PNP counterpart available within the same series family

Single Bipolar Transistors Applications

• General-purpose amplifier circuits
• Switching applications requiring high voltage isolation
• Audio pre-amplifier stages

Single Bipolar Transistors Procurement Notes

Verify that the specific suffix indicates tin/lead plating, as this affects RoHS compliance status. Confirm the manufacturer is Central Semiconductor Corp, distinct from Fairchild or ON Semiconductor variants which share the base part number. Ensure the 'A' grading matches the required hFE range for the design. Check datasheet revisions for thermal resistance updates.

Single Bipolar Transistors Selection Notes

Select this component when a high-voltage NPN transistor with low noise is required in a through-hole TO-92 package. The 'A' grade provides a guaranteed minimum hFE of 100, offering better consistency than standard bins. Consider the complementary BC556A for push-pull configurations. Verify lead-free requirements; if RoHS compliance is mandatory, a lead-free variant must be sourced instead.

Single Bipolar Transistors Part Context

This component belongs to the BC546 series of NPN silicon transistors, widely used in consumer electronics and industrial control. The series includes variants differentiated by voltage ratings (BC546, BC547, BC548) and gain bins (A, B, C). Central Semiconductor produces this specific version with traditional tin/lead terminations, catering to legacy designs or non-RoHS environments.

Single Bipolar Transistors Replacement Considerations

• BC546A (Fairchild/ON Semi)
• BC546A (NXP)
• 2N3904 (Lower voltage rating)

Single Bipolar Transistors FAQ

What is the difference between BC546A and BC546B?

The primary difference is the DC current gain (hFE) binning. The BC546A has a minimum hFE of 100, while the BC546B has a higher minimum hFE of 200. Both share the same voltage and current ratings.

Is the BC546A TRE TIN/LEAD RoHS compliant?

No. The 'TIN/LEAD' designation indicates the use of traditional tin-lead solder finishes, which contain lead. This part is not RoHS compliant. A lead-free alternative would have a different suffix indicating lead-free terminals.

What is the maximum junction temperature for this transistor?

The maximum junction temperature (Tj) for the BC546A is 175°C, allowing for operation in higher thermal environments compared to some standard plastic-packaged transistors rated at 150°C.