NXP Semiconductors BB173LXX
- Part No.:
- BB173LXX
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- 2-XDFN
- Datasheet:
-
BB173LXX.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE VHF VAR CAP 32V SOD882
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,740
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Product details
Overview
BB173LX from NXP Semiconductors is a VHF variable capacitance diode (varactor) fabricated in planar technology, used for tuning and frequency control in RF circuits. It delivers Cd = 39 pF at 1 V, Cd = 2.6 pF at 28 V, Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) ratio of 15, series resistance rs = 0.7 Ω at 100 MHz, and operates up to 125 °C junction temperature.
For engineers reviewing the BB173LX datasheet, BB173LX pinout, BB173LX application, or BB173LX equivalent, this page provides verified package dimensions, reverse voltage limits (32 V), capacitance vs. voltage behavior, low-series-resistance performance, and VHF-tuned oscillator design guidance.
Technical Context
The BB173LX functions as a voltage-controlled capacitor where reverse bias modulates junction depletion width, directly altering capacitance. Its planar construction ensures stable C-V linearity across 1–28 V, with typical Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) = 15 and TCCd < 10⁻⁴ K⁻¹.
Designed for VHF band operation (30–300 MHz), it exhibits low rs = 0.7 Ω at 100 MHz and minimal reverse leakage (IR ≤ 10 nA at VR = 30 V, 25 °C), enabling high-Q resonant tank performance in compact SMD layouts.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cd at 1 V | 39 pF typical - sets minimum VCO tuning range start point |
| Cd at 28 V | 2.6 pF typical - defines maximum tuning range endpoint |
| Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) | 15 typical - enables wide frequency sweep in VHF oscillators |
| rs at 100 MHz | 0.7 Ω typical - minimizes Q degradation in resonant LC tanks |
| VR max | 32 V - sets absolute reverse bias ceiling for reliable varactor operation |
| IF max | 20 mA - defines forward current limit during handling or test conditions |
| Tj max | +125 °C - supports operation in thermally constrained RF front-end modules |
Pinout & Package
BB173LX uses the DFN1006D-2 (SOD882D) ultra-small leadless plastic package: 1.0 × 0.6 × 0.4 mm body, 2-terminal surface-mount configuration. The cathode is marked by a bar on the top surface.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cathode | Reverse-biased terminal; connects to tuning voltage reference (e.g., ground or bias rail) |
| 2 | Anode | RF signal node; connects to inductor or resonator in VCO tank circuit |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Capacitance linearity | Excellent Cd vs. VR monotonicity over 1–28 V - reduces harmonic distortion in FM/FSK modulation paths |
| Ultra-small footprint | DFN1006D-2 (1.0 × 0.6 mm) - enables dense RF layout in space-constrained transceivers and IoT modules |
| Low series resistance | rs = 0.7 Ω at 100 MHz - preserves tank Q-factor >100 in 100–200 MHz VCO designs |
| High capacitance ratio | Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) = 15 - supports ≥3:1 frequency tuning range without switched capacitor banks |
Applications
| VHF Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO) | FM Transmitter Tuning Circuit |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Tuning element in a 100–250 MHz Colpitts VCO for wireless sensor nodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Voltage-variable capacitor forming part of the resonant LC tank with fixed inductor. Use Value: Enables 15:1 capacitance swing for 3.2× frequency coverage (e.g., 120–385 MHz) using single BB173LX and analog tuning voltage. |
Use Scenario: Frequency adjustment in low-power FM broadcast transmitter IC reference oscillator. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Varactor diode in crystal oscillator pulling circuit for ±50 kHz deviation. Use Value: Achieves precise, low-drift tuning with Cd(1V)/Cd(28V) = 15 and TCCd < 10⁻⁴ K⁻¹, minimizing temperature-induced carrier drift. |
| RF Front-End Impedance Matching | Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) Loop Filter |
Use Scenario: Dynamic matching network component in 200 MHz antenna interface for wearable radios. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tunable shunt capacitor adjusting conjugate match to PA output impedance. Use Value: Compensates for antenna detuning due to hand proximity via DC bias sweep, leveraging 39 → 2.6 pF range. |
Use Scenario: Capacitive element in PLL charge-pump loop filter for frequency synthesizer calibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Adjustable low-pass filter capacitor setting loop bandwidth and phase margin. Use Value: Allows post-layout fine-tuning of loop dynamics without changing PCB layout-bias voltage adjusts effective C value in real time. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar varactor diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infineon BBY52-02W | Cd(1V) = 25 pF, Cd(28V) = 2.2 pF, ratio = 11.4; rs = 1.1 Ω at 100 MHz | Narrower tuning range and higher series resistance reduce usable Q in high-frequency VCOs | Prefer BB173LX when >13:1 capacitance ratio and sub-1 Ω rs are required for VHF stability |
| ON Semiconductor MV2103 | Cd(1V) = 33 pF, Cd(28V) = 3.0 pF, ratio = 11; Tj max = +150 °C; SOD-323 package (2.7 × 1.4 mm) | Larger footprint and lower ratio constrain miniaturization and tuning range in compact VCOs | Choose MV2103 only if higher junction temperature rating (+150 °C) outweighs size and ratio trade-offs |
Compared with BBY52-02W and MV2103, BB173LX offers the highest capacitance ratio (15) and smallest footprint (1.0 × 0.6 mm), making it optimal for space-limited VHF tuners requiring wide, linear frequency sweeps without added switching complexity.
Availability
BB173LX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VHF oscillator design, RF impedance matching networks, and PLL loop filter calibration requiring stable component supply, consistent C-V characteristics, and ultra-compact SMD integration.
Supply support for BB173LX 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 IoT applications.
The BB173LX belongs to NXP's RF varactor diode product line, engineered specifically for high-linearity, low-loss voltage-controlled tuning in VHF communication systems and compact wireless transceivers.
FAQ
What is the maximum reverse voltage rating for BB173LX?
The BB173LX has an absolute maximum reverse voltage (VR) rating of 32 V, per IEC 60134 limiting values. Operation beyond this voltage risks permanent junction damage. For reliable long-term use in VCOs, design bias to stay ≤28 V, matching the datasheet's Cd characterization condition.
Does BB173LX support operation above 200 MHz?
Yes, BB173LX is characterized for VHF operation up to 300 MHz. Its series resistance rs = 0.7 Ω at 100 MHz and stable C-V behavior through 28 V reverse bias enable effective use in 200–250 MHz VCOs, provided layout minimizes parasitic inductance at the anode terminal.
How is polarity identified on the BB173LX package?
The BB173LX uses a marking bar on the top surface of the DFN1006D-2 package to indicate the cathode (Pin 1). When viewing the device in top-down orientation with the bar on the left, Pin 1 (cathode) is left, Pin 2 (anode) is right - consistent with standard SOD882D pinning.
What is the typical capacitance temperature coefficient (TCCd) of BB173LX?
BB173LX exhibits a typical capacitance temperature coefficient (TCCd) below 10⁻⁴ K⁻¹ across 1–28 V reverse bias, as shown in Figure 5 of the datasheet. This low drift supports stable VCO center frequency over –55 °C to +125 °C operating range without active compensation.
Can BB173LX replace BB173LXX in existing designs?
BB173LXX is not a documented NXP part number; only BB173LX appears in the official NXP datasheet (Rev. 1, 2013). If BB173LXX refers to a custom-marked or obsolete variant, verify its electrical specs and package compatibility before substitution. BB173LX remains the valid, supported orderable version.
BB173LXX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 2-XDFN
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Capacitance @ Vr, F:
- 2.75pF @ 28V, 1MHz
- Capacitance Ratio:
- 15.0
- 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, Wettable Flank
- Supplier Device Package:
- DFN1006D-2
BB173LXX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BB173LXX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BB173LXX 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 BB173LXX reliable?
The price and inventory of BB173LXX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BB173LXX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BB173LXX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BB173LXX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BB173LXX?
BB173LXX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BB173LXX 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 BB173LXX?
For technical support, including BB173LXX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BB173LXX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BB173LXX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BB173LXX 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 BB173LXX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BB173LXX?
All BB173LXX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BB173LXX, 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 BB173LXX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BB173LXX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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