NXP Semiconductors BB178,115
- Part No.:
- BB178,115
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Package:
- SC-79, SOD-523
- Datasheet:
-
BB178,115.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE VHF VAR CAP 32V SOD523
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:7,453
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BB178,115 from NXP Semiconductors is a planar variable capacitance diode (varactor) designed for VHF electronic tuning in television tuners (Band B, up to 460 MHz) and voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs). It delivers Cd(1 V) = 39 pF (typ), Cd(28 V) = 2.6 pF (typ), capacitance ratio Cd(1 V)/Cd(28 V) = 15 (typ), series resistance rs = 0.65 Ω (typ) at 100 MHz, and reverse voltage rating VR = 32 V.
For engineers reviewing the BB178,115 datasheet, BB178,115 pinout, BB178,115 application, or BB178,115 equivalent, this varactor's ultra-small SOD523 package, 2% gliding matching performance, low-series-resistance tuning linearity, and verified VHF capacitance-voltage characteristics are critical for high-stability oscillator and tuner design.
Technical Context
The BB178,115 operates as a reverse-biased junction capacitor whose depletion-layer width-and thus capacitance-varies precisely with applied DC tuning voltage. Its planar silicon structure enables tight capacitance matching across diode pairs via Direct Matching Assembly (DMA) and gliding sequence methods.
It exhibits a typical temperature coefficient of capacitance (TCd) of −100 ppm/K at VR = 1 V and −30 ppm/K at VR = 28 V, supporting stable VCO operation over 0 °C to +85 °C. Reverse leakage remains ≤10 nA at VR = 30 V and Tj = 25 °C, ensuring minimal tuning drift in low-power RF circuits.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Cd(1 V) | 39 pF (typ); sets maximum VCO tuning range and tank circuit resonance at low bias |
| Cd(28 V) | 2.6 pF (typ); defines minimum capacitance and highest achievable oscillation frequency |
| Cd(1 V)/Cd(28 V) ratio | 15 (typ); enables wide VCO tuning bandwidth (>4:1 frequency ratio) without band-switching |
| Series resistance rs | 0.65 Ω (typ) at 100 MHz; minimizes Q-factor degradation and phase noise in resonant tanks |
| Reverse voltage VR | 32 V (max); supports robust tuning headroom in VHF TV tuner front-ends |
| Capacitance matching | ≤2 % (gliding, 10-diode sequence); ensures predictable tracking in dual-varactor VCOs and filter banks |
| Package | SOD523 (SC-79); 1.25 mm × 0.85 mm footprint enables dense RF layout in space-constrained tuners |
Pinout & Package
BB178,115 is housed in an ultra-small plastic SOD523 (SC-79) surface-mount package with two leads. The cathode is marked by a visible bar on the device body.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cathode | Connected to RF ground or fixed bias node; polarity must be observed to maintain reverse bias |
| 2 | Anode | Connected to tuning voltage source; reverse bias voltage applied here controls capacitance value |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Excellent linearity | Capacitance vs. √VR curve deviation < ±2% over 1–28 V; reduces harmonic distortion in VCO output |
| 2% DMA matching | Guaranteed capacitance tracking within ±2% across matched pairs; eliminates manual trimming in dual-tuned filters |
| Ultra-small SMD package | SOD523 footprint (1.25 × 0.85 mm) with 0.65 mm lead pitch; fits high-density RF PCB layouts |
| Low series resistance | rs = 0.65 Ω (typ) at 100 MHz; preserves tank Q > 100 at 200 MHz, critical for low-phase-noise VCOs |
| VHF-rated capacitance ratio | Cd(1 V)/Cd(28 V) = 15 (typ); supports full-band tuning from 174–460 MHz in Band B TV applications |
Applications
| TV Tuner Front-End | Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO) |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Band B VHF television tuner (174–460 MHz) requiring precise channel selection and image rejection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Varactor diode used in LC tank circuit of RF input filter and local oscillator, tuned by analog voltage. Use Value: 15:1 capacitance ratio and 2% matching enable single-band coverage without switching, reducing component count and insertion loss. |
Use Scenario: Low-phase-noise VCO for wireless transceivers operating between 200–450 MHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Tuning element in Colpitts or Clapp oscillator topology, where capacitance variation adjusts resonant frequency. Use Value: 0.65 Ω series resistance maintains high tank Q, directly improving phase noise by ≥3 dB at 10 kHz offset. |
| FM Radio Receiver | RF Filter Tuning Module |
|
Use Scenario: Analog FM radio receiver (87.5–108 MHz) with electronic station search and automatic frequency control (AFC). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Capacitance-variable element in AFC loop filter and RF preselector, biased by control IC. Use Value: Tight 2% gliding matching ensures consistent tuning slope across production units, eliminating per-unit calibration. |
Use Scenario: Reconfigurable bandpass filter in multi-standard baseband/IF processing modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Paired varactors used in switched-capacitor bank to shift center frequency under microcontroller control. Use Value: Planar construction and DMA matching allow predictable inter-channel isolation >45 dB across 100–500 MHz range. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar varactor diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BBY52,115 | Cd(1 V) = 27 pF (typ), Cd(28 V) = 2.2 pF (typ), ratio = 12.3; rs = 0.9 Ω (typ); same SOD523 package | Narrower tuning range; suited for UHF-focused VCOs above 470 MHz | Select BBY52,115 when targeting higher-frequency bands where lower baseline capacitance improves stability. |
| BB179,115 | Cd(1 V) = 45 pF (typ), Cd(28 V) = 2.8 pF (typ), ratio = 16; rs = 0.7 Ω (typ); identical SOD523 package and pinout | Higher baseline capacitance extends low-end tuning to 100 MHz; slightly reduced ratio linearity | Choose BB179,115 for extended low-VHF coverage (e.g., 100–460 MHz) where wider absolute capacitance swing is prioritized. |
Compared with BB178,115, BBY52,115 offers tighter UHF performance but reduced VHF swing, while BB179,115 trades minor linearity for broader low-frequency reach-both share the same footprint and assembly compatibility, enabling drop-in evaluation without layout change.
Availability
BB178,115 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VHF television tuners, voltage-controlled oscillators, FM radio receivers, and reconfigurable RF filters requiring stable component supply and consistent matching performance.
Supply support for BB178,115 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.
BB178,115 belongs to NXP's RF varactor diode product line, engineered specifically for high-linearity, high-matching VHF tuning in broadcast and wireless infrastructure-prioritizing manufacturability, thermal stability, and RF consistency over general-purpose switching performance.
FAQ
What is the maximum reverse voltage rating for BB178,115?
The BB178,115 has a maximum continuous reverse voltage (VR) rating of 32 V, with a peak reverse voltage (VRM) of 35 V when used in series with a 10 kΩ resistor. Exceeding VR risks permanent junction damage, and operation above 28 V reduces capacitance to 2.6 pF (typ), limiting usable tuning range.
How does BB178,115 achieve 2% capacitance matching?
The BB178,115 achieves ≤2% capacitance matching through a Direct Matching Assembly (DMA) process combined with gliding sequence binning across batches of 10 diodes. This method leverages planar process uniformity and post-fabrication sorting-not external calibration-to ensure matched pairs for differential VCO and filter designs.
Is BB178,115 suitable for use in automotive applications?
No, BB178,115 is not automotive-qualified. Per NXP's legal disclaimers, it is neither tested nor warranted for automotive use, including safety-critical or life-support systems. For automotive VCOs or tuners, designers must select explicitly AEC-Q200 qualified alternatives and perform full system validation independently.
What is the typical series resistance of BB178,115 and why does it matter?
The BB178,115 has a typical series resistance (rs) of 0.65 Ω measured at 100 MHz. This low value directly preserves the quality factor (Q) of LC tank circuits-critical for minimizing phase noise in VCOs and insertion loss in tunable filters-especially above 200 MHz where resistive losses dominate.
Can BB178,115 be substituted with BB179,115 without PCB changes?
Yes, BB179,115 shares identical SOD523 packaging, pinout, and marking orientation with BB178,115, enabling direct physical substitution. However, its higher Cd(1 V) = 45 pF (vs. 39 pF) and slightly reduced linearity require retuning the control voltage range and verifying oscillator stability across the extended band.
BB178,115 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- SC-79, SOD-523
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Capacitance @ Vr, F:
- 2.754pF @ 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
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOD-523
BB178,115 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BB178,115 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BB178,115 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 BB178,115 reliable?
The price and inventory of BB178,115 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BB178,115 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BB178,115?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BB178,115 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BB178,115?
BB178,115 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BB178,115 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 BB178,115?
For technical support, including BB178,115 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BB178,115 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BB178,115 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BB178,115 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 BB178,115 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BB178,115?
All BB178,115 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BB178,115, 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 BB178,115 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BB178,115:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BB178,115 Tags

-
BBY5702VH6327XTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BBY5602VH6327XTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
SMV1405-040LF
Skyworks Solutions Inc.

-
BBY6502VH6327XTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BBY6602VH6327XTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BBY5802VH6327XTSA1
Infineon Technologies
.jpg)
-
BB175X
NXP Semiconductors

-
SMV1430-040LF
Skyworks Solutions Inc.

-
SMV1273-079LF
Skyworks Solutions Inc.

-
SMV1255-079LF
Skyworks Solutions Inc.

-
SMV1213-079LF
Skyworks Solutions Inc.

-
SMV1247-079LF
Skyworks Solutions Inc.
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
