NXP Semiconductors BB171X
- Part No.:
- BB171X
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- SC-76, SOD-323
- Datasheet:
-
BB171X.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE VHF VAR CAP 32V SOD323
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,583
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Product details
Overview
BB171X from NXP Semiconductors is a VHF variable capacitance diode (varactor) fabricated in planar technology and housed in an SOD323 (SC-76) surface-mount package. It delivers Cd(1V) = 52–62 pF, Cd(28V) = 2.48–2.89 pF, Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) ratio = 20.6–22, rs = 1.0–1.2 Ω at 100 MHz, and supports reverse voltage up to 32 V - enabling precise tuning in high-frequency oscillator circuits.
For engineers reviewing the BB171X datasheet, BB171X pinout, BB171X application, or BB171X equivalent, this varactor is selected for VHF tuning stability, low series resistance, high capacitance ratio, and compact SMD integration in RF front-end and frequency-agile signal generation designs.
Technical Context
The BB171X operates as a reverse-biased junction capacitor whose depletion width-and thus capacitance-varies nonlinearly with applied DC bias. Its planar silicon structure yields excellent linearity in C–V response between 1 V and 28 V, with typical TCCd < 100 ppm/K across that range.
Designed specifically for VHF (30–300 MHz) tuning, it exhibits low IR ≤ 10 nA at VR = 30 V and maintains stable Cd performance from –55 °C to +125 °C junction temperature, supporting robust operation in temperature-varying RF modules.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cd(1V) | 52–62 pF - sets maximum tuning range and oscillator start-up margin at low bias |
| Cd(28V) | 2.48–2.89 pF - defines minimum capacitance and upper frequency limit in VCO tank circuits |
| Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) ratio | 20.6–22 - enables >4.5:1 frequency tuning range in LC resonators without additional switching |
| rs (series resistance) | 1.0–1.2 Ω at 100 MHz - minimizes Q-factor degradation and phase noise in high-Q VHF oscillators |
| VR (max reverse voltage) | 32 V - supports wide bias control range while maintaining reliability under transient conditions |
| IR (reverse current) | ≤10 nA at VR = 30 V, 25 °C - ensures low leakage-induced frequency drift and bias instability |
| Package | SOD323 (SC-76) - 1.35 × 0.80 mm footprint enables dense RF layout with minimal parasitic inductance |
Pinout & Package
SOD323 (SC-76) plastic surface-mounted package with 2 leads; cathode identified by marking bar on body.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | cathode | DC bias return path; connects to ground or fixed potential in reverse-biased VCO tuning network |
| 2 | anode | RF signal node; interfaces directly with LC tank inductor or coupling capacitor in VHF oscillator core |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Excellent C–V linearity | Capacitance change vs. voltage follows predictable monotonic curve over 1–28 V, simplifying PLL loop filter design |
| Low series resistance (rs) | 1.0–1.2 Ω preserves tank circuit Q ≥ 100 at 100 MHz, directly limiting VCO phase noise floor |
| High capacitance ratio | 22:1 ratio enables single-varactor tuning across full VHF band without switched capacitor banks |
| Small SMD footprint | SOD323 package reduces parasitic lead inductance (< 0.3 nH), critical for stable >100 MHz operation |
Applications
| VHF Tunable Oscillator | FM Transmitter Front-End |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Fixed-inductor, variable-capacitor LC oscillator generating 100–250 MHz carrier signals in portable radios. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Voltage-controlled tuning element defining resonant frequency of Colpitts oscillator tank. Use Value: 22:1 capacitance ratio allows full-band coverage with single BB171X; low rs maintains phase noise < –110 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz offset. |
Use Scenario: Pre-emphasis and modulation-tuned RF stage in low-power FM broadcast transmitters (88–108 MHz). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bias-controlled reactance adjusting center frequency and deviation sensitivity in modulated VCO output. Use Value: Stable Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) = 22 ensures consistent frequency deviation across battery voltage range (2.4–3.6 V). |
| RF Filter Tuning Module | Test Equipment Local Oscillator |
Use Scenario: Digitally tuned bandpass filter in spectrum analyzers requiring real-time center frequency adjustment from 50–200 MHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Varactor bank element in switched-capacitor filter topology, controlled via DAC-generated bias voltage. Use Value: Low IR ≤ 10 nA prevents bias droop during slow-sweep measurements, preserving filter center accuracy. |
Use Scenario: Local oscillator in handheld RF signal generators where rapid frequency hopping and low spurious emissions are required. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary tuning diode in dielectric-resonator-stabilized VCO, biased via analog tuning port. Use Value: Planar construction ensures repeatable C–V characteristics across production lots, reducing calibration overhead. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar varactor diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infineon BBY52 | Cd(1V) = 25 pF, Cd(28V) = 2.5 pF, ratio = 10; rs = 1.5 Ω; SOD-523 package (smaller, higher parasitic inductance) | Lower capacitance range limits use to UHF+ bands; reduced ratio requires auxiliary switching for VHF coverage | Select when space-constrained UHF designs prioritize footprint over VHF tuning range |
| ON Semiconductor MVAM109 | Cd(1V) = 45 pF, Cd(28V) = 3.0 pF, ratio = 15; rs = 1.3 Ω; SOD-323 package; rated VR = 30 V (lower than BB171X) | 15:1 ratio provides narrower tuning bandwidth; 30 V max VR reduces headroom for transient suppression | Choose for cost-sensitive VHF designs where 15:1 ratio suffices and 2 V lower VR margin is acceptable |
Compared with BBY52 and MVAM109, the BB171X offers the highest capacitance ratio (22) and widest reverse voltage rating (32 V) in SOD323, making it optimal for single-diode VHF oscillator designs demanding maximum tuning range and bias margin.
Availability
BB171X is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VHF oscillator design, FM transmitter development, and RF test equipment manufacturing requiring stable component supply, consistent C–V matching, and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for BB171X 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 company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.
The BB171X belongs to NXP's RF discrete portfolio, engineered specifically for high-linearity, low-loss voltage-controlled tuning in VHF communication systems and instrumentation-grade signal sources.
FAQ
What is the maximum reverse voltage rating for BB171X?
The BB171X has an absolute maximum reverse voltage (VR) rating of 32 V under standard conditions, and up to 35 V when used in series with a 10 kΩ resistor. Exceeding these values risks permanent junction damage per IEC 60134 limiting values. The BB171X must be operated within this envelope to ensure reliability in VHF tuning circuits.
Does BB171X support operation at elevated temperatures?
Yes, the BB171X is specified for junction temperatures from –55 °C to +125 °C. Reverse current remains ≤200 nA at VR = 30 V and Tj = 85 °C, and capacitance variation versus temperature is characterized in Figure 3 of the datasheet. This makes BB171X suitable for industrial and outdoor RF modules where thermal cycling occurs.
How does the Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) ratio of BB171X impact VCO design?
The BB171X Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) ratio of 20.6–22 directly determines achievable frequency tuning range in LC-based VCOs. A 22:1 ratio enables >4.5:1 f₀ sweep without switched capacitors - simplifying layout, reducing component count, and improving repeatability in BB171X-based oscillator designs.
Is BB171X pin-compatible with other SOD323 varactors?
The BB171X uses standard SOD323 pinning: Pin 1 = cathode (marked), Pin 2 = anode. While physical footprint matches other SOD323 varactors like MVAM109, electrical parameters (capacitance range, ratio, rs) differ - so direct substitution requires verification of bias range, Q requirements, and tuning linearity in the target circuit.
What is the typical series resistance (rs) of BB171X and why does it matter?
The BB171X has a typical series resistance (rs) of 1.0–1.2 Ω measured at 100 MHz with Cd ≈ 30 pF. This low rs value minimizes resistive losses in resonant tank circuits, preserving Q-factor and suppressing phase noise - a critical parameter for stable, low-jitter BB171X-based VCOs operating above 100 MHz.
BB171X Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- SC-76, SOD-323
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Capacitance @ Vr, F:
- 2.89pF @ 28V, 1MHz
- Capacitance Ratio:
- 22.0
- Capacitance Ratio Condition:
- C1/C28
- Voltage - Peak Reverse (Max):
- 32 V
- Diode Type:
- Single
- Q @ Vr, F:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOD-323
BB171X FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BB171X through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BB171X on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for BB171X reliable?
The price and inventory of BB171X are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BB171X is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BB171X?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BB171X transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BB171X?
BB171X orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BB171X order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for BB171X?
For technical support, including BB171X datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BB171X requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BB171X is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BB171X products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that BB171X meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BB171X?
All BB171X units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BB171X, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The BB171X part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BB171X:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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