BC237 Transistor Pinout, Equivalent, Uses, Specs and other Information
BC237 is a good high gain general purpose transistor. This post describes BC237 transistor pinout, equivalent, uses, specs and other information about this TO-92 package BJT transistor.
Features / Technical Specifications
- Package Type: TO-92
- Transistor Type: NPN
- Max Collector Current(IC): 100mA
- Max Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE): 45V
- Max Collector-Base Voltage (VCB): 50V
- Max Emitter-Base Voltage (VEBO): 6V
- Max Collector Dissipation (Pc): 500 miliWatt
- Max Transition Frequency (fT): 150 MHz
- Minimum & Maximum DC Current Gain (hFE): 120 – 800
- Max Storage & Operating temperature Should Be: -55 to +150 Centigrade
PNP Complementary
PNP Complementary of BC237 is BC307
Replacement and Equivalent
BC337, BC547, BC546, BC549, BC550, SS9014, C945 (Pin configuration of some these equivalent transistors may different from BC237, therefore it is necessary to check the transistor’s pinout before replacing)
BC237 Transistor Explained / Description
BC237 is a TO-92 package NPN BJT transistor designed for general purpose applications and can be used for both switching and amplifications purposes. The maximum collector current of the transistor is 100mA due to which it can be used to drive and control many loads in circuits that falls under 100mA. On the other hand the maximum collector dissipation of 500mW and max DC current gain of upto 800 makes it ideal to use in audio and other electronic signal amplification purposes. Due to the specs and features this transistor can be used in replacement of many other general purpose TO-92 BJT transistors. The device comes in three different part numbers and the only difference between part numbers is their last alphabet which defines the DC current gain value of the device. Like BC237A can provide DC current gain of 120 to 220, BC237B can provide gain of 180 to 460 and BC237C can provide gain of 380 to 800.
Where We Can Use it & How to Use
BC237 can be used in any general purpose applications that falls under its specs. When using as a switch it can drive loads of upto 100mA and capable of controlling and driving relays, LEDs, small DC motors, high power transistor etc. On the other hand it can also be used as an amplifier or preamplifier to amplify audio and other type of signals in electronics. Additionally it can also perform well in RF circuits under 150MHz for example FM receivers, FM and VHF Oscillators etc.
Applications
Sensor Circuits
Audio Preamplifier Circuits
Signal Amplification Circuits
Audio amplifier circuits
Audio Amplifier Stages
Switching Loads under 100mA
Darlington Pairs
RF Circuits
How to Get Long Term Performance in a Circuit
For long term performance it is suggested to use the transistor 20% below from its maximum values. Do not drive load more than 100mA and 45V. Use a suitable base resistor and always store and operate it in temperature above -65 Celsius and below +150 Celsius.
Datasheet
To Download the datasheet just copy and paste the below link in your browser.
https://cdn.datasheetspdf.com/pdf-down/B/C/2/BC237_FairchildSemiconductor.pdf
