NXP Semiconductors BB187,315

Overview

BB187 from NXP Semiconductors is a planar technology variable capacitance diode (varactor) designed for VHF tuning applications, featuring 2.75 pF capacitance at 25 V reverse bias, a minimum capacitance ratio of 11 (Cd(2V)/Cd(25V)), and 2 % gliding matching accuracy via Direct Matching Assembly (DMA). It operates with low series resistance (0.75 Ω at 470 MHz, 5 V) and supports reverse voltages up to 32 V.

For engineers reviewing the BB187 datasheet, BB187 pinout, BB187 application, or BB187 equivalent, this varactor is selected for high-linearity voltage-controlled oscillators and VHF television tuner circuits where precise, matched capacitance tracking across reverse voltage range is critical.

Technical Context

The BB187 functions as a voltage-dependent capacitor in reverse-biased operation, with capacitance varying from 29.3–34.2 pF at 2 V to 2.57–2.92 pF at 25 V. Its planar construction enables stable temperature coefficient performance and tight matching across production lots.

Designed for RF tuning systems, it delivers high linearity in C–V response and supports operation up to 125 °C junction temperature. The 2 % DMA matching ensures consistent frequency pullability in paired or arrayed VCO designs without post-assembly calibration.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOD523 (SC-79), ultra-small plastic surface-mount package with 2 leads; 1.25 mm × 0.85 mm footprint, 0.65 mm height; cathode indicated by marking bar.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar varactor diode applications.

Compared with BBY52 and SMV1232-011, the BB187 uniquely combines 2 % DMA matching, ≥11 capacitance ratio, and 0.75 Ω series resistance in the SOD523 footprint-making it the only option for high-stability, wide-tuning VHF oscillators where production yield and thermal drift must both be minimized.

Availability

BB187 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VHF television tuners, voltage-controlled oscillators, FM radio front-ends, and reconfigurable RF filter modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for BB187 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 BB187 belongs to NXP's RF varactor diode product line, engineered specifically for high-linearity, matched-capacitance tuning in VHF broadcast and communication systems where repeatable C–V characteristics and thermal stability are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the BB187 in RF circuits?

The BB187 functions as a voltage-controlled variable capacitance diode (varactor), used to tune resonant frequencies in VHF oscillator and filter circuits. Its capacitance changes predictably with applied reverse bias voltage, enabling electronic frequency adjustment without mechanical components. The BB187 achieves this with high linearity and tight matching, making it especially valuable in production-grade VHF television tuners and stable VCOs.

How does the BB187's 2 % DMA matching benefit circuit design?

The BB187's 2 % gliding Direct Matching Assembly (DMA) matching ensures that capacitance values across a sequence of devices vary by no more than ±2 % over the full 2–25 V reverse voltage range. This allows designers to deploy paired BB187 diodes in differential VCO topologies without individual calibration, improving manufacturing yield and reducing phase noise sensitivity to process variation. The BB187 thus simplifies high-volume RF module assembly.

What is the maximum reverse voltage rating for the BB187?

The BB187 has an absolute maximum 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. Operation beyond these limits risks permanent junction damage. For reliable long-term performance in VHF tuners, the BB187 is typically biased between 2 V and 24 V-well within its specified safe operating area.

Can the BB187 be used in automotive applications?

No-the BB187 is not automotive-qualified. Per NXP's legal disclaimers, unless explicitly stated in the datasheet, the device is not tested or warranted for automotive use. It lacks AEC-Q200 qualification and has no guaranteed performance under automotive temperature cycling, vibration, or EMC stress profiles. For automotive VCOs or tuners, designers must select an AEC-Q200 qualified alternative; the BB187 remains appropriate for industrial, broadcast, and consumer equipment.

What package type does the BB187 use, and how is polarity identified?

The BB187 uses the SOD523 (SC-79) ultra-small plastic surface-mount package, measuring 1.25 mm × 0.85 mm with a 0.65 mm profile. Polarity is identified by a marking bar on the cathode end-pin 1 is cathode, pin 2 is anode. This compact two-terminal package minimizes parasitic inductance, supporting stable RF performance up to 230 MHz, and is compatible with standard reflow soldering processes used for the BB187.