Diodes Incorporated BC846A-7-F
- Part No.:
- BC846A-7-F
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BC846A-7-F.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 65V 0.1A SOT-23-3
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:113,566
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BC846A-7-F from Diodes Incorporated is an NPN small-signal transistor in SOT23 package, rated for 80 V collector-base voltage (VCBO), 65 V collector-emitter voltage (VCEO), and 100 mA continuous collector current (IC). It delivers DC current gain (hFE) of 110–220 at IC = 2 mA, VCE = 5 V, and is optimized for switching and audio-frequency amplifier applications in space-constrained PCBs.
For engineers reviewing the BC846A-7-F datasheet, BC846A-7-F pinout, BC846A-7-F application, or BC846A-7-F equivalent, key selection criteria include VCEO/VCBO ratings, hFE binning (A-grade), SOT23 thermal resistance (RθJA = 403 °C/W), and RoHS-compliant lead-free construction with matte tin plating.
Technical Context
This NPN bipolar junction transistor operates in linear amplification and saturated switching modes, with verified VBE(on) = 580–700 mV at IC = 2 mA and VCE = 5 V, and VCE(sat) ≤ 250 mV at IC = 10 mA / IB = 0.5 mA. Its fT = 100–300 MHz supports high-frequency AF and low-speed digital signal conditioning.
Thermal performance is defined for 1 oz copper FR4 layouts: RθJA = 403 °C/W (minimum pad) and 357 °C/W (15 mm × 15 mm pad), with safe operating area limited by VCEO = 65 V and PD = 310 mW. ESD robustness includes 4 kV HBM and 400 V MM ratings per JEDEC JESD22-A114/A115.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCBO | 80 V - Maximum reverse bias before breakdown between collector and base; defines high-side switch headroom |
| VCEO | 65 V - Maximum collector-emitter voltage under open-base condition; sets rail-to-rail switching limit |
| IC (continuous) | 100 mA - Max steady-state collector current; determines load drive capability in relay drivers or LED switches |
| hFE @ 2 mA | 110–220 - DC current gain range for A-grade bin; enables predictable base drive sizing in amplifier stages |
| VCE(sat) @ 10 mA | ≤ 250 mV - Low saturation voltage ensures <2.5 mW power loss in switching mode at 10 mA load |
| fT | 100–300 MHz - Gain-bandwidth product confirms suitability for audio preamps and RF detector front-ends up to ~100 MHz |
| PD | 310 mW - Power dissipation on standard FR4; requires thermal relief for >150 mW sustained operation |
Pinout & Package
Package: SOT23 - Surface-mount plastic package (2.90 mm × 1.30 mm × 1.03 mm), UL 94V-0 rated, moisture sensitivity level 1, 0.008 g weight, matte tin-plated leads solderable per MIL-STD-202 Method 208.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Emitter) | Current sink terminal | Reference node for biasing; connects to ground or low-impedance return path in common-emitter configurations |
| 2 (Base) | Control input | Receives current-limited drive (typically 0.05–5 mA); requires series resistor to limit IB and prevent saturation overshoot |
| 3 (Collector) | Current source terminal | Drives load toward VCC; must remain ≤65 V under all operating conditions including inductive kickback |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Automated insertion compatibility | SOT23 footprint and marking (K1Q) support pick-and-place accuracy and AOI verification |
| Lead-free & RoHS 3 compliant | No intentionally added lead, Br/Cl <1500 ppm total, Sb <1000 ppm - meets EU automotive and industrial compliance mandates |
| Complementary PNP pairing | Direct match with BC856A–BC858C series for push-pull output stages and differential amplifiers |
| High-temperature operation | Rated for TJ = –65°C to +150°C - supports under-hood and industrial control environments |
| Low-noise amplification | NF = 2–10 dB @ 1 kHz, 200 µA - suitable for microphone preamp and sensor signal conditioning |
Applications
| Audio Preamp Stage | General-Purpose Switch |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Amplifying low-level analog signals from electret microphones or piezoelectric sensors in portable audio devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN common-emitter amplifier with fixed bias network, providing 20–40 dB voltage gain at 1–20 kHz. Use Value: hFE = 110–220 and NF = 2–10 dB enable clean gain without introducing audible noise or distortion. | Use Scenario: Driving indicator LEDs, relays, or small solenoids from MCU GPIO pins in industrial HMIs and power supplies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Saturated switch with base resistor limiting IB to ensure IC/IB ≥ 20 for reliable turn-on. Use Value: VCE(sat) ≤ 250 mV at IC = 10 mA minimizes power loss and self-heating during continuous duty cycles. |
| Level Translation Interface | Current Mirror Reference |
Use Scenario: Translating logic levels between 3.3 V microcontrollers and 5 V or 12 V peripheral buses in embedded systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Common-emitter inverter with pull-up resistor, providing inverted, shifted output compatible with TTL or CMOS inputs. Use Value: VCEO = 65 V and fast fT allow reliable operation across 3.3 V–12 V domains with sub-100 ns propagation delay. | Use Scenario: Establishing matched bias currents in analog ICs, op-amp input stages, or precision reference circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: One leg of a discrete two-transistor current mirror, leveraging matched hFE and thermal tracking in same-package layout. Use Value: Tight hFE bin (A-grade) and identical SOT23 thermal mass improve current ratio accuracy to ±5% over temperature. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN small-signal transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BC846B-7-F | Higher hFE bin (200–450 vs. 110–220); identical VCEO, VCBO, and package | Preferred where higher gain reduces base drive burden, e.g., low-power sensor interfaces | Select BC846B if circuit requires lower IB or improved β-stability at low IC |
| MMBT3904LT1G | Same SOT23 package but lower VCEO (40 V), higher IC (200 mA), and wider hFE spread (100–300) | Used in higher-current switching (e.g., fan control) where 65 V rating is unnecessary | Choose MMBT3904LT1G only when VCEO < 45 V suffices and higher IC margin is needed |
Compared with BC846B-7-F and MMBT3904LT1G, BC846A-7-F provides the tightest hFE tolerance for predictable bias design, maintains the highest VCEO in its family, and offers superior thermal stability for precision analog use cases.
Availability
BC846A-7-F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio preamplification, general-purpose switching, level translation interfaces, and current mirror references requiring stable component supply across industrial, consumer, and automotive-qualified designs.
Supply support for BC846A-7-F 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
Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, headquartered in Plano, Texas, with design centers and manufacturing facilities across Asia and the Americas.
The BC846A–BC848C series belongs to Diodes' small-signal transistor product line, engineered for cost-sensitive, high-volume applications demanding consistent gain binning, robust ESD protection, and full RoHS/"Green" compliance in SOT23 packaging.
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable collector-emitter voltage for BC846A-7-F?
The absolute maximum collector-emitter voltage (VCEO) for BC846A-7-F is 65 V at TA = +25°C. This rating decreases with rising junction temperature and must not be exceeded under any operating condition, including transient events like inductive flyback. Derating follows the published thermal curve: power dissipation drops linearly above +25°C ambient.
Does BC846A-7-F have automotive qualification?
No - BC846A-7-F is not AEC-Q101 qualified. Diodes offers the automotive-compliant variant BC846AQ–BC848CQ under a separate datasheet (DS11108Q), which includes extended temperature testing (–40°C to +150°C), enhanced reliability screening, and PPAP documentation support for automotive Tier 1 suppliers.
How is the "A" suffix in BC846A-7-F defined?
The "A" suffix denotes the hFE gain bin: BC846A guarantees DC current gain of 110–220 at IC = 2 mA and VCE = 5 V. This is distinct from BC846B (200–450) and BC846C (420–800), enabling precise bias network design without gain variation-induced drift in analog circuits.
Can BC846A-7-F replace BC847A-7-F in existing designs?
Yes, with verification - both share identical SOT23 package, pinout, and marking (K1Q), but BC847A has lower VCEO (45 V) and VCBO (50 V). Replacement is safe only if the application's maximum VCE remains ≤45 V; otherwise, BC846A-7-F's higher 65 V rating provides additional margin against overvoltage transients.
BC846A-7-F Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Transistor Type:
- NPN
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 100 mA
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 65 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 600mV @ 5mA, 100mA
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 15nA
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 110 @ 2mA, 5V
- Power - Max:
- 300 mW
- Frequency - Transition:
- 300MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOT-23-3
BC846A-7-F FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BC846A-7-F through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC846A-7-F 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 BC846A-7-F reliable?
The price and inventory of BC846A-7-F are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC846A-7-F is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BC846A-7-F?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC846A-7-F transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BC846A-7-F?
BC846A-7-F orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BC846A-7-F 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 BC846A-7-F?
For technical support, including BC846A-7-F datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC846A-7-F requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BC846A-7-F is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BC846A-7-F 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 BC846A-7-F meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC846A-7-F?
All BC846A-7-F units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC846A-7-F, 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 BC846A-7-F part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BC846A-7-F:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BC846A-7-F Tags

-
MMBT3906LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT3904-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMBT3904LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT3906-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMBT3904-TP
Micro Commercial Co

-
MMBT2222A-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BC846BLT1G
onsemi

-
BC847B,215
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
SMMBT3904LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT2222A-TP
Micro Commercial Co

-
MMBTA06LT1G
onsemi

-
MMBT2222ALT1G
onsemi
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…
