Product Description (Detailed):
Master negative-side switching and signal amplification in your electronic designs with our versatile BC557 PNP Transistor. This essential general-purpose low-power amplifier and switching transistor is a cornerstone component for hobbyists, students, and professional engineers. It perfectly complements NPN transistors like the BC547, offering crucial functionality for a broader range of circuit configurations. Housed in the compact and user-friendly TO-92 package, it's ideal for both rapid prototyping on breadboards and secure placement on printed circuit boards (PCBs).
The BC557 is a PNP Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT). Unlike NPN transistors which turn on with a positive voltage at the base, a PNP transistor typically turns ON (conducts) when its base is pulled low (closer to the negative rail or ground) relative to its emitter. This characteristic makes it perfect for applications requiring "high-side" switching in common emitter configurations or current sinking from a load connected to the positive supply.
In its switching role, the BC557 can control loads with currents up to 100mA and collector-emitter voltages up to 45V. It's frequently used to switch LEDs, small relays, or act as an inverter in digital logic circuits where a low signal needs to activate a load. As a low-power amplifier, the BC557 offers a high DC current gain (hFE, typically ranging from 110 to 800). This enables it to effectively amplify weak analog signals from sensors, serve as a pre-amplifier in audio stages, or provide current gain in various control circuits. Its robust specifications and widespread availability make it a go-to choice for current control and signal manipulation. Whether you're building automated systems, audio projects, or exploring advanced transistor circuit designs, the BC557 PNP Transistor offers reliable performance for your negative-side switching and amplification needs.
The BC557 PNP transistor is a general-purpose BJT used in analog signal amplification, low-power switching, and digital logic control applications. It works by conducting when the base is pulled low relative to the emitter, making it perfect for circuits where a low logic signal triggers an output.
This transistor is widely used in sensor circuits, logic inverters, audio pre-amplifiers, and low current load switching, especially in conjunction with microcontrollers like Arduino, PIC, or STM32. Its high current gain (hFE) and compact design make it ideal for educational, commercial, and prototyping purposes.
Key Features:
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PNP-type general-purpose BJT transistor
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Low-power signal amplifier and switch
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Collector current (Ic): 100 mA max
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Collector-Emitter voltage (Vce): -45V max
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Compact and breadboard-friendly TO-92 package
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Widely used in amplifier stages, Arduino I/O, and DIY electronics
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Compatible with BC547 (NPN) for complementary circuits
Technical Specifications:
Parameter |
Specification |
Transistor Type |
PNP |
Package Type |
TO-92 (through-hole) |
Collector-Emitter Voltage |
-45V |
Collector-Base Voltage |
-50V |
Emitter-Base Voltage |
-5V |
Collector Current (Ic max) |
-100 mA |
Power Dissipation (Pd max) |
500 mW |
DC Current Gain (hFE) |
110 to 800 (varies by batch) |
Transition Frequency (fT) |
150 MHz (typical) |
Operating Temperature Range |
-65°C to +150°C |
Lead Pitch |
~2.54mm (standard breadboard compatible) |
How to Use:
Pin Configuration (TO-92 Package):
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Pin 1 – Collector
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Pin 2 – Base
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Pin 3 – Emitter
Flat face toward you, pins facing downward (from left to right: Collector, Base, Emitter)
Typical Use Cases:
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Switching applications (relay driving, LED control)
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Low-noise audio amplification
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Analog signal amplification
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Inverter logic circuits
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Arduino sensor interfacing (PNP configuration)
Applications:
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Analog audio circuits
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Digital logic level shifting
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Low current LED and relay drivers
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Sensor signal inversion
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Hobby electronics & STEM education kits
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DIY Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and microcontroller projects
Package Includes: