Introduction
The BD136 is a PNP bipolar junction transistor (BJT) from the popular BD13x series, designed for medium-power applications. It is often manufactured in a TO-126 package, which is a plastic, through-hole component that provides a good surface for heat dissipation. This transistor is highly valued in electronics for its dual capability as both a switch and an amplifier.

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As a switch, the BD136 can handle a continuous collector current of up to -1.5A and a maximum pulse current of 2A. This makes it a powerful component for controlling a variety of loads in electronic circuits, such as relays, high-power LEDs, and even other transistors. When operating at high current, it’s crucial to use a suitable heatsink with the transistor to prevent overheating and ensure stable, long-term performance.
BD136 PNP Transistor

In addition to its switching capabilities, the BD136 excels in signal amplification. It is frequently used in audio and other amplification circuits where its robust characteristics, including a good DC current gain and a collector-emitter voltage of -45V, allow it to effectively boost signals. The BD136 is often paired with its NPN complementary transistor, the BD135, in amplifier stages to achieve efficient and high-fidelity output.
BD136 Pinout

BD136 PNP Transistor Key Features
The BD136 is a PNP bipolar junction transistor (BJT) known for its capability to handle medium power. As the complementary transistor to the BD135, it’s a popular choice for both switching and amplification circuits. Its key features are what make it a versatile component in many electronic designs.
- PNP Polarity: As a PNP transistor, the BD136 turns on when a small negative voltage is applied to its base. This allows a larger current to flow from the emitter to the collector, a behavior that’s the opposite of an NPN transistor. This makes it ideal for use in complementary circuits with NPN transistors like the BD135.
- High Current Handling: The BD136 can handle a continuous collector current (IC) of up to 1.5A. This capacity is significantly higher than that of small-signal transistors and allows it to drive more powerful loads, such as relays, small motors, and high-power LEDs.
- Medium Power Dissipation: The BD136 is well-suited for medium-power applications with a maximum collector power dissipation of 12.5 watts. This rating indicates its ability to handle and dissipate heat generated during operation, ensuring stable performance, especially when paired with an appropriate heatsink.
- High DC Current Gain (hFE): The transistor’s DC current gain can range from 40 to 250, depending on the specific model and operating conditions. This high gain allows for effective current amplification, making it a reliable choice for signal amplification in audio amplifiers and other analog circuits.
- Voltage Ratings: The BD136 has a collector-emitter voltage (VCE) of -45V and a collector-base voltage (VCB) of -45V, making it suitable for circuits with voltages up to this level.
- Package Type: It is most commonly found in a TO-126 or SOT-32 plastic package. This type of package is designed for through-hole mounting and provides a surface for heat dissipation.
BD136 Transistor Specifications/Characteristics
Characterstics | Rating (Max) |
---|---|
Collector Current(IC) | –5A |
Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE) | –45V |
Collector-Base Voltage (VCB) | –45V |
Emitter-Base Voltage (VEBO) | –5V |
Collector Dissipation (Pc) | 5 Watt |
Transition Frequency (fT) | 190 MHz |
DC Current Gain (hFE) | 25 – 250 |
Storage & Operating temperature | -55 to +150 Centigrade |
Package Type | TO-126 |
Transistor Type | PNP |
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Key Applications of BD136 PNP Transistor
The BD136 is a medium-power PNP transistor widely used for both amplification and switching. Its ability to handle a significant collector current and power dissipation makes it a versatile component in various electronic applications.
- Audio Amplifier & Amplifier Stages: The BD136 is a staple in audio amplifier circuits. It’s frequently used in the pre-driver and output stages of Class B amplifiers, often paired with its complementary NPN transistor, the BD135. This push-pull configuration efficiently amplifies audio signals with minimal distortion.
- Signal Amplifier Circuits: Beyond audio, the BD136 is used to amplify various signals in analog circuits. Its medium power rating makes it suitable for applications where a small input signal needs to be boosted to drive a larger component or circuit block.
- Switching Loads under -1.5A: With a continuous collector current of up to -1.5A, the BD136 is an effective electronic switch. It can control a variety of loads that require more current than a small-signal transistor can provide, such as relays, solenoids, and high-power LEDs.
- Power Supply & Battery Charger Circuits: Due to its ability to handle up to 12.5 watts of power dissipation, the BD136 is often found in the regulation or switching stages of power supplies and battery charger circuits. It can help to control the flow of current to the battery, ensuring a stable and safe charging process.
- Motor Driver: The BD136 is capable of driving small to medium-sized DC motors, making it a common component in motor driver circuits. It can be used to control the speed or direction of a motor by switching the power supply.
- Darlington Pair: When combined with another transistor in a Darlington pair configuration, the BD136 can achieve an extremely high current gain. This setup is useful in applications where a very low base current needs to switch or control a very high load current.
- Voltage Regulators: The BD136 can be used in linear voltage regulators to provide a stable output voltage. In this application, it acts as the pass transistor, dissipating excess power to maintain a constant output voltage.
NPN Complimentary Transistor
NPN Complementary of BD136 Transistor is BD135.
Equivalent Transistors of BD136
BD138, BD140, BD238G, MJE235, MJE171, BD792, BD168, BD180, MHE253, 2SB1354, BD190, BD236, BD378-16, MJE702, 2SB1355.
(The pinout for certain transistors can vary from that of the BD136).
Datasheet of BD136 PNP Transistor
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