NXP Semiconductors BA792,115

Overview

BA792 from NXP Semiconductors (formerly Philips Semiconductors) is a planar band-switching diode in a SOD110 ceramic SMD package, designed for VHF television tuner band selection. It delivers low diode capacitance (max. 1.1 pF at VR = 3 V, f = 1–100 MHz), low forward resistance (max. 0.7 Ω at IF = 3 mA, f = 200 MHz), and supports continuous reverse voltage up to 35 V - enabling high-isolation, low-loss RF switching in compact tuners.

For engineers reviewing the BA792 datasheet, BA792 pinout, BA792 application, or BA792 equivalent, key selection criteria include its verified 1.1 pF capacitance at 3 V, 0.7 Ω RF forward resistance at 200 MHz, SOD110 footprint compatibility, thermal resistance of 315 K/W on standard PCB, and suitability for surface-mount VHF band-switching circuits requiring stable RF performance below 300 MHz.

Technical Context

The BA792 operates as a voltage-controlled RF switch in tuner front-ends, where its low junction capacitance minimizes signal loss during band selection. Its planar silicon structure and ceramic SOD110 package ensure stable parasitic behavior across VHF frequencies (30–300 MHz), with reverse leakage limited to 10 nA at 20 V and 25 °C.

Thermal performance is defined with the device mounted on an 11 × 25 × 1.6 mm PCB, yielding a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 315 K/W. The diode is rated for continuous forward current up to 100 mA and storage temperatures from −65 °C to +150 °C, supporting industrial-grade tuner reliability.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOD110 - very small ceramic rectangular surface-mounted package (2.10 × 1.40 × 0.95 mm), with cathode marked on top surface. Two-terminal device: Anode (pin 1) and Cathode (pin 2).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar band-switching diode applications.

Compared with BAV99,115 and BAR63-02V,115, the BA792 uniquely balances 1.1 pF capacitance, 0.7 Ω RF resistance, and 35 V reverse rating in the standardized SOD110 footprint - making it optimal for legacy and new VHF tuner designs requiring proven, production-ready band-switching performance without layout change.

Availability

BA792 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VHF television tuners, FM radio front-ends, and wireless microphone transmitter modules requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for BA792 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor leader focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications, with roots in Philips' pioneering discrete and analog portfolio.

The BA792 belongs to NXP's legacy RF discrete diode product line, engineered specifically for high-isolation, low-loss band switching in analog and early digital broadcast receiver systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum reverse voltage rating for the BA792?

The BA792 has a maximum continuous reverse voltage (VR) rating of 35 V, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This value is validated per IEC 60134 and applies under normal operating conditions with junction temperature not exceeding 150 °C. Exceeding 35 V may cause irreversible junction breakdown. The BA792 is intended for use in tuner bias networks where this rating provides sufficient margin over typical 24–30 V supply rails.

Does the BA792 have a specified diode capacitance at zero bias?

No - the BA792 datasheet specifies diode capacitance (Cd) as max. 1.1 pF at VR = 3 V, f = 1–100 MHz, not at zero bias. This test condition reflects typical reverse-bias operating points in VHF tuner band-switching circuits. Zero-bias capacitance is not characterized or guaranteed for the BA792, and design margins should be based on the 3 V specification.

Is the BA792 compatible with lead-free reflow soldering processes?

Yes - the BA792's ceramic SOD110 package and metallization are qualified for standard lead-free reflow profiles (JEDEC J-STD-020), including peak temperatures up to 260 °C. The device's thermal resistance (Rth j-a = 315 K/W) and construction allow reliable attachment without delamination or parameter shift when processed per IPC-A-610 Class 2 guidelines.

What is the forward voltage of the BA792 at 10 mA DC current?

The BA792 datasheet specifies VF = max. 1.1 V at IF = 100 mA, but does not provide a guaranteed value at 10 mA. Based on typical silicon diode behavior and the given 1.1 V/100 mA point, VF at 10 mA is approximately 0.75–0.85 V. For precision biasing, designers should verify actual VF using characterization data or measure on representative units, as the BA792 is optimized for RF dynamic performance, not DC forward characteristics.

Can the BA792 replace the BA791 in existing designs?

Yes - the BA792 is a direct functional and mechanical replacement for the BA791, sharing identical SOD110 package, marking code (L8), and electrical specifications including Cd ≤ 1.1 pF and rD ≤ 0.7 Ω. Both devices were manufactured by Philips/NXP for the same VHF tuner application space, and no PCB or schematic changes are required when substituting BA792 for BA791.