Introduction
The BC558 PNP transistor is a general-purpose small-signal device designed for amplification and low-power switching applications. As part of the popular BC55x transistor family, it is especially preferred for audio, sensor, and general-purpose low-frequency circuits. With a collector-emitter voltage rating of -30V and a maximum collector current of -100mA, the BC558 is ideal for handling small to medium electronic loads.

This transistor is available in three different gain groupings: BC558A, BC558B, and BC558C, offering DC current gain (hFE) values ranging from 110 to 800. This flexibility allows engineers to choose the variant most suited for their specific design requirements. Additionally, the BC558 has a transition frequency of 150 MHz, making it suitable not only for audio amplification but also for high-frequency switching applications.
BC558 PNP Transistor

Encased in a compact TO-92 plastic package, the BC558 is cost-effective, reliable, and easily accessible. It is commonly used in signal processing, low-noise audio amplifiers, preamplifier circuits, LED drivers, and switching applications. Due to its low noise characteristics and robust design, it is a popular choice among students, hobbyists, and professional circuit designers.
BC558 Pinout

BC558 Transistor Key Features
- PNP bipolar junction transistor for general-purpose applications.
- Suitable for low-power switching and amplification.
- Available in gain groups (A, B, C) to match application needs.
- Compact and low-cost TO-92 package.
- Widely used in audio, sensor, and signal processing circuits.
- Stable and durable with long-term availability.
Specifications/Characteristics of BC558 PNP Transistor
- Maximum Collector-Base Voltage (Vcb): -30V
- Maximum Collector-Emitter Voltage (Vce): -30V
- Maximum Emitter-Base Voltage (Veb): -5V
- Maximum Collector Current (Ic): -100mA
- Total Power Dissipation (Ptot): 500mW
- DC Current Gain (hFE): 110 – 800 (depending on variant)
- Transition Frequency (ft): 150 MHz (typical)
- Noise Figure: Low, suitable for audio amplification
- Operating Temperature Range: -65°C to +150°C
- Package: TO-92 plastic
BC558 Pin Configuration
| Pin# | Pin Name | Pin Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Collector | Current flows out, usually connected to load |
| 2 | Base | Controls transistor operation (biasing terminal) |
| 3 | Emitter | Current flows in, connected to negative supply |
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Key Applications of BC558 PNP Transistor
- Low-noise audio frequency amplifiers.
- General-purpose signal amplification.
- Switching circuits up to 100mA.
- LED drivers and biasing circuits.
- Sensor and detector interface circuits.
- Pre-amplifiers and oscillator circuits.
- Educational and DIY electronic projects.
NPN Complimentary Transistor
BC548 (NPN) is the complementary transistor to BC558.
Equivalent Transistors of BC558
- BC556 (higher voltage PNP transistor).
- BC557 (similar general-purpose PNP transistor).
- BC559 (low-noise PNP transistor).
- 2N3906 (PNP small-signal transistor).
- 2N2907 (PNP transistor with higher current capability).
(Pin configuration of some transistors mentioned here may different from BC558).
Datasheet of BC558 PNP Transistor
Click the following Button below to download the datasheet of BC558 Transistor :
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