BC331 and BC541?

Question

I tried to find datasheets for BC331 and BC541 to compare them with BC547.

Can I replace BC331 / BC541 with BC547?

Answer 1

BC331 NPN, 60v, 30 mA, hFE= 125, Ft = 100 MHz, TI, low noise, TO92
Very old and tired.

Some data here

Related selection guide here

BC541: Does not seem to be a known device.

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A BC547 will be a good substitute for most older silicon NPN transistors.
Note that BC541 = 60V rated and BC547 = 50V. This is extremely unlikely to cause a problem.

For most small signal transistor purposes I use and recommend the following:

BC337-40 NPN through hole Datasheet here
BC327-40 PNP through hole Datasheet here
BC807-40 PNP SMD Datasheet here
BC815-40 NPN SMD Datasheet here

All 45V, typically 0.8A (varies slightly with manufacturer), TO92 or SOT23 Ft = 100 Mhz Hfe (current gain = 250-600, mean = 400.

All these are often available as cheaply as any other transistor available (look around) and have abpout as good a combination of current, current gain and general usefulness as anyhing else going. When you find better cheaper please advise.