By A1015 Transistor 230
Introduction to A1015 Transistor
Technical Specification Analysis
Replacement Options and Technical Comparison
Typical Application Circuit Analysis
Usage Guidelines and Best Practices
A1015 is a widely used general-purpose PNP bipolar junction transistor (BJT). It is designed for low-power amplification and switching applications. In consumer electronics, audio amplification, and various control circuits, this transistor is a preferred choice for engineers because of its cost-effectiveness and reliability. Its versatility allows it to handle simple signal amplification and complex logic control.
Compared to similar products, A1015 balances price and performance well. Market data shows its price is usually 15%-20% lower than equivalent alternatives. This gives a clear cost advantage in mass production.
The key technical parameters of A1015 form its application basis:
| Parameter Category | Value |
| Transistor Type | PNP |
| Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE) | -50V |
| Collector-Base Voltage (VCB) | -50V |
| Emitter-Base Voltage (VEB) | -5V |
| Collector Current (IC) | -150mA |
| Total Power Dissipation (PTOT) | 400mW |
| DC Current Gain (hFE) | 70-400 |
| Transition Frequency (fT) | 80MHz |
| Package Type | TO-92 |
These parameters define the working limits of A1015. Its wide current gain range (70-400) gives flexibility for different applications.
Compared to other PNP transistors, A1015 has a lower noise figure by about 1.5-2dB, which is crucial for high-quality audio amplification circuits.
A1015 uses the standard TO-92 package, with clear size specifications:
This package design ensures perfect compatibility with breadboards and PCBs and supports automated soldering processes.

Absolute maximum ratings define the safe operating limits of A1015. These are strict boundaries:
In practical use, it is recommended to leave a 20% safety margin. For example, control the collector current below -120mA, not the maximum -150mA.
Electrical characteristics show A1015 performance under different conditions:
DC Current Gain (hFE) Levels:
Saturation Voltage Characteristics:
Frequency Response Characteristics:
These parameters show A1015 has the best gain linearity at medium currents (1-10mA), which supports excellent audio amplification performance.

If A1015 is unavailable, consider these alternatives:
Fully compatible substitutes:
When choosing replacements, consider:
Technical comparisons show A1015 has better cost-effectiveness than BC557, with ~25% lower price and better gain flatness below 80MHz.
In audio pre-amplifiers, A1015 shows its main advantages. A typical common-emitter amplifier uses:
Component Selection:
Performance Indicators:
Compared to similar MOSFETs, A1015 has lower distortion in small audio signals, with second harmonic distortion typically below 0.5%.
As a switch, A1015 can drive various loads efficiently:
LED Driver Circuit:
Relay Drive Considerations:
Tests show A1015 switch consistency is ~15% better than some domestic alternatives, improving yield in mass production.

Wrong bias is a main reason for A1015 circuit failure. Correct bias design:
Design Steps:
Common Mistakes:
Although A1015 has low power, thermal management is important:
Heat Consideration:
Tests show leaving 4mm² copper area on PCB increases power handling by ~30%.
To prevent voltage breakdown and overcurrent:
Protection Measures:
Combine A1015 with another PNP transistor to form a Darlington pair:
Configuration Features:
Applications:
Tests show A1015 Darlington pair reduces temperature rise by ~20% compared to single transistor for same load, showing better thermal stability.
Pair A1015 with C1815 for push-pull amplifier, a classic audio power output configuration:
Circuit Advantages:
Design Points:
Market data shows A1015/C1815 amplifier has ~40% lower total harmonic distortion than single transistor circuits, widely used in consumer electronics.
Usage Notes
To ensure long-term reliability of A1015, follow these practices:
Soldering Control:
PCB Design Recommendations:
Quality Control:
Statistics show circuits following these rules have ~60% lower failure rate, greatly improving market competitiveness.
As a PNP bipolar junction transistor (BJT), the A1015 is utilized in numerous electronic circuits. Its versatility supports functions ranging from audio amplification and signal switching to voltage regulation and oscillation. It is also well-suited for incorporation into Darlington pairs, low-power battery-operated equipment, and various educational and hobbyist applications.
Characterized by high stability and reliability, the A1015 transistor features a maximum power dissipation of 200mW, a collector-emitter voltage of -50V, and a collector current of -150mA, making it a practical solution for diverse electronic circuits.
An NPN transistor, a fundamental semiconductor device for amplifying and switching electronic signals, consists of three semiconductor layers arranged as two N-type regions surrounding a single P-type region.
A key high-frequency performance indicator for the A1015 transistor is its transition frequency (fT), typically 80 MHz. This is defined as the frequency at which the device's current gain drops to unity.