BC546_J18Z Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The BC546_J18Z is an NPN bipolar junction transistor (BJT) manufactured by onsemi, designed for general-purpose switching and amplification applications. This device features a maximum collector current of 100 mA, collector-emitter breakdown voltage of 65 V, and a transition frequency of 300 MHz in a through-hole TO-92-3 package. The BC546_J18Z is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent parts essential for ongoing design support and procurement continuity.

Substiute Parts

BC546_J18Z

onsemiIn Stock: 1037BC546_J18Z Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BC546ABU

onsemiIn Stock: 5653BC546ABU Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the BC546_J18Z is determined by strict equivalence across all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. The substitute part BC546ABU maintains identical specifications for collector current, breakdown voltage, saturation voltage, cutoff current, DC current gain, power dissipation, transition frequency, operating temperature, and package configuration. Both parts are NPN transistors in the TO-92-3 through-hole package and share the same base product number (BC546), confirming parametric compatibility.

The substitution is valid based on the following key parameters:

• Transistor Type: NPN
• Current - Collector (Ic) Max: 100 mA
• Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max): 65 V
• Vce Saturation (Max): 600 mV @ 5 mA, 100 mA
• Current - Collector Cutoff (Max): 15 nA
• DC Current Gain (hFE) Min: 110 @ 2 mA, 5 V
• Power - Max: 500 mW
• Frequency - Transition: 300 MHz
• Operating Temperature: 150°C
• Package / Case: TO-92-3

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The BC546ABU is the direct parametric equivalent for the obsolete BC546_J18Z. All electrical characteristics, mechanical dimensions, and package specifications are identical. The BC546ABU holds active product status with onsemi, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support. Both parts maintain REACH Unaffected status and EAR99 export classification.

The BC546ABU is RoHS3 compliant, providing enhanced environmental and regulatory alignment for new designs and procurement. The substitute part is available in bulk packaging and maintains equivalent moisture sensitivity classification. Selection of the BC546ABU eliminates obsolescence risk while preserving full electrical and mechanical compatibility with existing circuit designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the BC546ABU be used as a direct replacement for the BC546_J18Z in existing designs?

A: Yes. The BC546ABU is a parametric equivalent with identical electrical specifications, DC current gain, power dissipation, frequency response, and TO-92-3 package configuration. No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary difference between these two parts?

A: The BC546_J18Z is classified as obsolete, while the BC546ABU is an active product. The BC546ABU also carries RoHS3 compliance certification. All electrical and mechanical parameters are identical.

Q: Are there any packaging differences between BC546_J18Z and BC546ABU?

A: Both parts use the TO-92-3 through-hole package. The BC546_J18Z is supplied in standard packaging, while the BC546ABU is available in bulk packaging. The physical dimensions and pin configuration are identical.

Q: Does the BC546ABU meet the same regulatory requirements as the BC546_J18Z?

A: Both parts maintain REACH Unaffected status and EAR99 export classification. The BC546ABU additionally carries RoHS3 compliance certification, providing enhanced regulatory alignment.

Q: What is the operating temperature range for both parts?

A: Both the BC546_J18Z and BC546ABU support a maximum junction temperature (TJ) of 150°C.

Q: Are the DC current gain specifications identical?

A: Yes. Both parts specify a minimum DC current gain (hFE) of 110 measured at 2 mA collector current and 5 V collector-emitter voltage.