2N3903 Transistor Pinout, Description, Equivalent, Features and Applications
In this post we are going to discuss about 2N3903 transistor. It is a general purpose small signal transistor available in TO-92 package. The post contains 2N3903 transistor pinout, description, equivalent, features, applications and other related information.
Features / Technical Specifications:
- Package Type: TO-92
- Transistor Type: NPN
- Max Collector Current(IC): 200mA
- Max Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE): 40V
- Max Collector-Base Voltage (VCB): 60V
- Max Emitter-Base Voltage (VBE): 5V
- Max Collector Dissipation (Pc): 625 mW
- Max Transition Frequency (fT): 250 MHz
- Minimum & Maximum DC Current Gain (hFE): 20 to 150
- Max Storage, Operating & Junction temperature range: -55 to +150 Centigrade
PNP Complementary:
PNP Complementary of 2N3903 is 2N3905
Replacement and Equivalent:
2N2222, BC546, BC547, 2N4401, A1015, 9014, C945, BC527, BC548, BC549. Pin configuration of these replacement transistors can be different from the 2N3903. Therefore it is suggested check pinout before replacing.
2N3903 Transistor Explained / Description:
2N3903 is an NPN BJT small signal transistor available in TO-92 package. It is a transistor from the famous 2N3904 family. Like 2N3904 the 2N3903 is also designed for general purpose switching and amplification purposes. The max collector to emitter of the transistor is 40V. Maximum collector current is 200mA, minimum to maximum DC current gain is from 20 to 150, max noise figure is 6.0dB, maximum transition frequency is 250MHz and max power dissipation is 625mW.
2N3903 VS 2N3904
2N3903 is the transistor of the famous 2N3904 series and it is not exactly same as 2N3904 but can be used as a replacement of 2N3904 in most applications. When comparing the two we can say that 2N3904 is the updated version of 2N3903.
Where We Can Use it & How to Use:
2N3903 is designed to use in general applications hence it can be used in variety of applications which requires small signal transistor. When use as a switch it can drive load of upto 200mA. Moreover it can also be used as amplifier and preamplifier in wide variety of applications. Other than that it can also be used RF applications around 100MHz.
Applications:
Audio amplifiers
Audio preamplifiers
FM radios
Switching loads under 200mA
Safe Operating Guidelines / Absolute Maximum Ratings:
To get long term performance follow the guidelines below.
Do not use the transistor to its absolute maximum ratings, using any transistor to its absolute maximum rating may result in internal or external damage to the transistor or decrease its performance. Therefore it is advised stay 20% below from its absolute maximum ratings.
- The maximum collector to emitter voltage is 40V so do not drive load of more than 32V.
- Max collector current is 200mA, therefore the derived load should be under 160mA.
- The storage and operating temperature is from -55°C and below +150 °C.
Datasheet:
To download the datasheet just copy and paste the below link in your browser.
https://cdn.datasheetspdf.com/pdf-down/2/N/3/2N3903_ONSemiconductor.pdf
