BD380 Pinout, Equivalent, Applications, Datasheet

The BD380 pinout is essential for understanding the connections and functionality of this popular PNP power transistor. The BD380 is designed for medium-power audio and switching circuits where high performance and reliability are required. With a collector-emitter voltage of –80 V and a maximum power dissipation of 25 W, it is widely used in push-pull amplifier stages along with its NPN complementary partner, the BD379 transistor.

Introduction to BD380 PNP Transistor

The BD380 is a PNP silicon power transistor housed in a TO-126 package, offering durability, compactness, and effective heat dissipation. It is designed to handle moderate current levels efficiently while maintaining excellent linearity and gain characteristics.

Engineers and hobbyists prefer the BD380 transistor for applications such as audio amplifier outputs, voltage regulators, and switching drivers. Its PNP polarity allows it to operate as the negative half of a complementary push-pull configuration, providing symmetrical performance when paired with the BD379 NPN transistor.

Its consistent DC gain, thermal stability, and reliable operation make the BD380 an ideal choice for consumer electronics, amplifiers, and medium-load circuits.

BD380 PNP Transistor

Pinout of BD380

Understanding the BD380 Pinout Configuration

The BD380 pinout follows the standard TO-126 transistor configuration, making it easy to identify and integrate into a circuit. Correct pin identification ensures efficient biasing and optimal current flow in both switching and amplification designs.

Pin Configuration of BD380 Pinout

Key Features of BD380 Transistor

• Designed for medium-power amplification and switching
• PNP silicon transistor with excellent linearity
• Compatible with standard TO-126 heatsinks
• High reliability under thermal stress
• Suitable for push-pull amplifier output stages

BD380 Transistor Datasheet and Specifications

• Collector-emitter voltage (Vce): –80 V
• Collector-base voltage (Vcb): –100 V
• Emitter-base voltage (Veb): –5 V
• Collector current (Ic): –4 A
• Total power dissipation (Pc): 25 W
• DC current gain (hFE): 40 to 160
• Transition frequency (fT): 3 MHz (typical)
• Package type: TO-126
• Polarity type: PNP

Working Principle of BD380 Transistor

The BD380 operates by allowing current to flow from the emitter to the collector when a small negative bias is applied to the base terminal. This makes it ideal for use in signal amplification and switching circuits where the control signal drives higher loads.

In amplifier stages, the BD380 provides smooth negative signal handling with low harmonic distortion. When paired with an NPN transistor such as BD379, it creates a complementary push-pull configuration, ensuring balanced current flow and symmetrical amplification across the output stage.

More Circuit Layouts

Typical Applications of BD380

• Audio amplifier driver and output stages
• Power regulators and control circuits
• Low-frequency linear amplifiers
• Signal and pulse amplifiers
• Complementary push-pull configurations

NPN Complementary Transistor

The NPN complementary transistor for the BD380 is BD379. Both have identical voltage and current ratings but operate with opposite polarities. The BD379 handles the positive half of the waveform, while the BD380 handles the negative half, achieving efficient and distortion-free output in push-pull amplifier circuits.

Equivalent Transistors and Alternatives

Common equivalents and replacements for BD380 include:

• BD378
• BD242C
• TIP42C
• 2N6491
• MJE15031

These alternatives offer similar voltage and power ratings but should always be verified for pin layout and thermal limits before substitution.

BD380 vs BD379 Comparison

The BD380 is a PNP transistor, while the BD379 is its complementary NPN counterpart. Both share the same electrical ratings of 80 V collector-emitter voltage and 25 W power dissipation, making them an ideal pair for medium-power amplification.

In operation, BD379 conducts during the positive cycle of a waveform, and BD380 handles the negative cycle. This symmetrical operation ensures smooth waveform reproduction in audio applications. Both devices also exhibit low saturation voltage and high current gain, contributing to overall efficiency and reduced signal distortion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the BD380 transistor used for?

It is used in audio amplifiers, voltage regulators, and medium-power switching circuits.

What type of transistor is BD380?

The BD380 is a PNP silicon power transistor designed for medium-power applications.

What is the BD380 pin configuration?

The BD380 pinout (from left to right, flat side facing you) is: Pin 1 – Emitter, Pin 2 – Collector, Pin 3 – Base.

What is the complementary transistor for BD380?

The complementary transistor is BD379, which is NPN.

Can I use TIP42C instead of BD380?

Yes, TIP42C can be used as an alternative, but circuit verification is recommended before replacement.

Conclusion

The BD380 transistor is a durable and efficient PNP power transistor ideal for medium-power amplifier and switching applications. With its –80 V collector-emitter rating and 25 W dissipation, it provides reliable performance in compact electronic designs. Paired with the BD379 NPN transistor, it forms a high-performance complementary pair suitable for audio and signal amplification with excellent thermal and electrical balance.

Datasheet & Pinout of BD380 NPN Transistor

Click the following Button to download the datasheet of BD380 Transistor :

More projects, You may like:

• Video Transmitter DIY Homemade FM Radio Transmitter
• Adjustable Power Supply DIY Battery Charger
• 12V-220V 500 Watt inverter DIY Homemade
• MPPT Solar Charge Controller DIY Homemade
• DIY LA4440 bass amplifier homemade

For more project and circuit diagrams, you can go through the Schematics in the main menu where you can find many interesting projects and circuit diagrams like audio amplifier circuits, voltage booster circuit, battery charger circuit and timer circuits etc., which are all beginner circuit projects. Feel free to check them out!

Thank you for visiting the article