Nexperia USA Inc. BC846B-QR
- Part No.:
- BC846B-QR
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BC846B-QR.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 65V 0.1A TO-236AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:46,499
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BC846B-QR from Nexperia is an AEC-Q101-qualified NPN general-purpose transistor in SOT23 (TO-236AB) package, rated for 65 V VCEO, 100 mA IC, and hFE = 200–450 at VCE = 5 V / IC = 2 mA; used for automotive signal switching and low-power amplification in engine control modules and body electronics.
For engineers reviewing the BC846B-QR datasheet, BC846B-QR pinout, BC846B-QR application, or BC846B-QR equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, thermal limits, automotive qualification status, SOT23 terminal mapping, and real-world use context - all aligned with Nexperia's Rev. 2 (2022) product data sheet.
Technical Context
This device operates as a silicon NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for linear amplification and digital switching in ambient temperatures from −65 °C to +150 °C. Its DC current gain group B (200–450) enables stable biasing across automotive temperature ranges, while its 6 V VEBO and 80 V VCBO support robust input/output isolation in 12 V/24 V vehicle systems.
The BC846B-QR exhibits VCE(sat) ≤ 400 mV at IC = 100 mA / IB = 5 mA and fT = 100 MHz, making it suitable for medium-speed switching (e.g., LED drivers, sensor interface stages) without requiring external compensation. Its 250 mW Ptot rating assumes FR4 PCB mounting with standard SOT23 footprint.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | 65 V - Maximum collector-emitter voltage before breakdown; supports 12 V/24 V automotive rail switching with margin. |
| IC | 100 mA continuous - Sustained collector current capability; sufficient for driving small relays, LEDs, or logic-level interfaces. |
| hFE | 200–450 at VCE = 5 V, IC = 2 mA - Tight DC current gain spread ensures predictable base drive requirements in production designs. |
| VCE(sat) | ≤ 400 mV at IC = 100 mA, IB = 5 mA - Low saturation voltage minimizes power loss and self-heating in switching applications. |
| Ptot | 250 mW at Tamb ≤ 25 °C on FR4 - Thermal limit defines maximum dissipation without heatsinking; derates to zero at 150 °C junction. |
| fT | 100 MHz - Transition frequency confirms usable bandwidth up to ~10 MHz for small-signal amplification or PWM edge sharpening. |
| Rth(j-a) | 500 K/W - Junction-to-ambient thermal resistance under free-air conditions; informs PCB copper area requirements for thermal management. |
Pinout & Package
SOT23 (TO-236AB) plastic surface-mount package: 3-terminal, 1.3 mm × 2.9 mm footprint, 0.95 mm height, tin-plated leads compatible with reflow and wave soldering per IPC-J-STD-020.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Base (B) | Current-controlled input node; requires 5 mA typical base drive for full 100 mA collector conduction. |
| 2 | Emitter (E) | Reference terminal for bias network; connected to ground or low-side return path in common-emitter configurations. |
| 3 | Collector (C) | Output current sink node; handles switched load current up to 100 mA with ≤400 mV drop at rated IB. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive use per stress test standard; eliminates need for additional qualification in Tier-1 ECUs. |
| Group B hFE binning | 200–450 gain range enables tighter bias design vs. generic transistors; reduces production calibration effort. |
| SOT23 footprint compatibility | Standardized 3-pin layout allows direct replacement of BC847B, MMBT3904, or PN2222A in existing layouts. |
| Low VBE(sat) | ≤ 900 mV at IC = 100 mA / IB = 5 mA - Enables reliable turn-on from 3.3 V or 5 V microcontroller GPIOs. |
Applications
| Engine Control Unit (ECU) Sensor Interface | Automotive LED Lighting Driver |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Amplifying low-level analog signals from crankshaft position or coolant temperature sensors before ADC sampling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Small-signal NPN amplifier in common-emitter configuration with emitter degeneration resistor. Use Value: Stable hFE over −40 °C to +125 °C ensures consistent gain across operating range; 100 MHz fT preserves signal integrity up to 10 kHz sensor bandwidth. |
Use Scenario: Switching 20–80 mA LED strings in interior lighting or dashboard backlighting circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Digital switch controlled by MCU GPIO; operated in saturation mode with fixed base resistor. Use Value: VCE(sat) ≤ 400 mV minimizes power loss and heat generation in confined space; AEC-Q101 qualification ensures reliability over 15-year vehicle life. |
| Body Control Module (BCM) Relay Driver | Infotainment System Audio Stage |
Use Scenario: Driving 50–100 mA coil current for door lock, window lift, or HVAC relay actuation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side switch with flyback diode protection; base driven by 3.3 V logic via current-limiting resistor. Use Value: 65 V VCEO withstands inductive kickback spikes up to 60 V; 200 mA ICM peak rating handles relay turn-on surge. |
Use Scenario: Pre-amplifier stage for microphone inputs or line-level audio routing in head unit front-end. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Common-emitter small-signal amplifier with bypassed emitter resistor for gain stability. Use Value: 2–10 dB noise figure at 1 kHz supports clean audio capture; 11 pF Ce capacitance avoids high-frequency roll-off in 20 kHz bandwidth designs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN general-purpose transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MMBT3904-7-F | hFE = 100–300 (wider spread); VCEO = 40 V; not AEC-Q101 qualified | Limited to non-automotive industrial or consumer use; insufficient voltage margin for 24 V systems | Select only for cost-sensitive non-automotive designs where 40 V rating and wider hFE tolerance are acceptable |
| BC847B-QR | Same package and pinout; hFE = 200–450 (identical bin), but VCEO = 45 V instead of 65 V | Not suitable for high-voltage transient environments (e.g., load dump, alternator ripple) | Prefer BC846B-QR when system-level transients exceed 45 V; otherwise BC847B-QR offers identical gain performance at lower cost |
Compared with MMBT3904-7-F and BC847B-QR, BC846B-QR uniquely combines 65 V VCEO, AEC-Q101 qualification, and tight hFE binning - making it the only choice for automotive-grade switching where both voltage margin and production consistency are mandatory.
Availability
BC846B-QR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU sensor interfaces, LED lighting drivers, BCM relay control, and infotainment audio stages requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and lifecycle demands.
Supply support for BC846B-QR 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
Nexperia is a global semiconductor expert focused on high-volume, high-reliability discrete and logic devices, with leadership in automotive-qualified components and advanced packaging.
The BC846x-Q series belongs to Nexperia's AEC-Q101-qualified general-purpose transistor portfolio, engineered specifically for robust, cost-effective signal switching and amplification in automotive electronic control units and body electronics.
FAQ
Is BC846B-QR pin-compatible with BC847B-QR?
Yes - both use identical SOT23 (TO-236AB) package with base-emitter-collector pin 1–2–3 assignment. However, BC846B-QR has higher 65 V VCEO versus BC847B-QR's 45 V rating, so substitution requires verification of system-level voltage transients.
What is the maximum allowable base current for continuous operation?
The absolute maximum peak base current is 200 mA (single pulse, tp ≤ 1 ms), but for DC operation, IB must be limited to ensure IC ≤ 100 mA and Ptot ≤ 250 mW. At VCE = 5 V and IC = 100 mA, typical IB is 5 mA - sustained base current should not exceed 10 mA to avoid thermal runaway.
Does BC846B-QR require external ESD protection in automotive PCB layouts?
No - the device incorporates built-in ESD protection rated to ±4 kV HBM per JESD22-A114, sufficient for handling typical assembly and board-level ESD events in automotive manufacturing. Additional TVS diodes are unnecessary unless exposed to direct cable discharge events.
How does hFE vary with temperature, and what impact does it have on bias stability?
hFE increases with temperature: typical gain rises ~0.5%/°C between 25 °C and 125 °C. In fixed-bias circuits, this can cause collector current drift; emitter degeneration resistors or feedback networks are recommended to maintain stable Q-point across −40 °C to +150 °C operating range.
BC846B-QR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- BC846x-Q
- 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:
- 400mV @ 5mA, 100mA
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 15nA (ICBO)
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 200 @ 2mA, 5V
- Power - Max:
- 250 mW
- Frequency - Transition:
- 100MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-236AB
BC846B-QR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BC846B-QR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC846B-QR 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 BC846B-QR reliable?
The price and inventory of BC846B-QR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC846B-QR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BC846B-QR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC846B-QR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BC846B-QR?
BC846B-QR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BC846B-QR 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 BC846B-QR?
For technical support, including BC846B-QR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC846B-QR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BC846B-QR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BC846B-QR 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 BC846B-QR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC846B-QR?
All BC846B-QR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC846B-QR, 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 BC846B-QR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BC846B-QR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BC846B-QR 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…
