Electronic Corner

General purpose transistors BC546, BC547 and BC548 are very popular and similar, here we explain the differences of these components.

All data you see here, can be found on component datasheets; however here we would make a comparison table, to help users to choose the correct component across all situations.

Note: these components aren't suitable for all applications and situations.

Well, we start to analyze the main characteristics of BC 546 and BC547.

From this table we note that BC546 are suitable for applications that need more voltage than BC547. Current constraints are the same for both transistors.

Now we see absolute maximum ratings of BC548 transistor.

We note that BC548 transistor is made for applications with less voltage variations, but more current than BC546/BC547 circuits.