2SA1015 PNP General-Purpose Low-Noise Transistor – TO-92

The 2SA1015 (A1015) is a general-purpose PNP bipolar junction transistor (BJT) commonly used for low-power amplification, audio circuits, signal processing, and switching applications.

Known for its low-noise characteristics and high DC current gain, the A1015 is suitable for small-signal amplifier stages and complementary circuits. It is commonly paired with the 2SC1815 NPN transistor for complementary amplifier and switching designs.

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: 2SA1015 / A1015
• Transistor Type: PNP
• Package: TO-92 as commonly supplied
• Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCEO): -50V
• Collector-Base Voltage (VCBO): -50V
• Maximum Collector Current (IC): -150mA
• Maximum Collector Power Dissipation: Approx. 400mW as specified
• DC Current Gain (hFE): Up to approximately 400 depending on gain classification and test conditions
• Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage: Up to approximately -0.3V under specified test conditions
• Base-Emitter Voltage: Up to approximately -1.45V under specified test conditions
• Noise Figure: Approximately 1dB under specified test conditions
• Operating Junction Temperature: Up to +150°C
• Specified Temperature Range: Approximately -55°C to +150°C
• Case Material: Molded Plastic
• Complementary NPN Transistor: 2SC1815

PNP Transistor Operation

The A1015 is a PNP transistor, meaning it is typically turned on by bringing the base voltage sufficiently below the emitter voltage.

In normal silicon-transistor operation, the base-emitter junction typically has a forward voltage magnitude of around 0.6–0.7V, although the actual value depends on collector current, base current, temperature, and operating conditions.

The specified 1.45V base-emitter voltage is not the normal voltage required to turn the transistor on; it represents a limit or value under particular datasheet test conditions.

Pin Configuration

For many commonly available 2SA1015 TO-92 devices, when viewing the flat face of the transistor with the leads pointing downward, the pin arrangement is typically:

Pin 1 – Emitter (E)
Pin 2 – Collector (C)
Pin 3 – Base (B)

The Emitter is normally connected toward the more positive side of the circuit in a PNP configuration.

The Collector carries the controlled load current toward the lower-potential side of the circuit.

The Base controls transistor conduction. Bringing the base sufficiently below the emitter allows the transistor to conduct.

Important: Pin assignments can vary between manufacturers and replacement devices. Always verify the pinout of the exact transistor supplied before installation.

Applications

The A1015 is suitable for low-noise audio amplifiers, preamplifier stages, small-signal amplification, PNP switching circuits, high-side switching, signal processing, driver circuits, complementary amplifier stages, oscillators, sensor interfaces, and general electronics projects.

Its complementary relationship with the 2SC1815 NPN transistor makes the pair particularly useful for push-pull and complementary amplifier circuits.

Important Note

The 150mA collector current and 400mW power dissipation are maximum ratings, not recommended continuous operating targets. Allow suitable safety margins and consider ambient temperature, transistor heating, load conditions, and the manufacturer's safe operating limits.

For inductive loads such as small relays or coils, suitable flyback/transient protection should be provided.

Package Includes

1 × 2SA1015 (A1015) PNP Transistor