Nexperia USA Inc. BC846S/DG/B4X

Overview

BC846S from Nexperia is an NPN general-purpose double transistor in a SOT363-3 (SC-88) surface-mount package, integrating two isolated NPN transistors with V_CEO = 65 V, I_C = 100 mA per transistor, and h_FE ≥ 110 at 2 mA/5 V. It enables compact dual-switching or differential amplification in space-constrained signal routing and logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC846S datasheet, BC846S pinout, BC846S application, or BC846S equivalent, key selection criteria include per-transistor breakdown voltage, thermal resistance (R_th(j-a) = 568 K/W), dual-transistor isolation integrity, and SOT363-3 footprint compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

This dual NPN device provides electrically isolated transistor pairs within a single TSSOP6 package, supporting independent biasing and switching without mutual interference. Each transistor meets IEC 60134 absolute maximum ratings, including V_CBO = 80 V and T_j = 150 °C.

It operates across –65 °C to +150 °C ambient, with DC current gain stable over temperature (110–100 at 2–10 mA), and exhibits low V_CE(sat) ≤ 300 mV at I_C/I_B = 20, enabling efficient low-voltage switching.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT363-3 (TSSOP6) plastic surface-mounted package: 1.35 mm × 2.2 mm footprint, 0.65 mm pitch, 6-pin transparent top view with pin 1 index marker.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual NPN transistor applications.

Compared with BC846S, BC847S offers higher and wider h_FE range for precision gain control, while MBT3904DW1T1G trades voltage and power headroom for marginally lower unit cost in low-voltage consumer designs.

Availability

BC846S is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for logic level translation, LED driver circuits, and redundant switching nodes requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term SMT assembly support.

Supply support for BC846S 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 standard products, with leadership in discrete devices, logic ICs, and MOSFETs for automotive, industrial, and computing markets.

The BC846S belongs to Nexperia's general-purpose bipolar transistor family, engineered for space-efficient dual-transistor integration in cost-sensitive, high-yield SMT manufacturing environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable junction temperature for BC846S?

The absolute maximum junction temperature (T_j) is 150 °C, as defined by IEC 60134. Operation above this value risks permanent degradation of h_FE, leakage current, and beta stability. Derating curves in Figure 1 specify power limits versus ambient temperature for FR4 PCB mounting.

Can BC846S be used in linear amplification mode?

Yes-its h_FE stability (110–100 across 2–10 mA), low V_CE(sat), and f_T = 100 MHz support Class-A small-signal amplification up to ~10 MHz. However, thermal resistance (568 K/W per transistor) requires careful heatsinking or current limiting to avoid self-heating distortion.

Is there mutual capacitance between the two transistors in BC846S?

No measurable mutual capacitance exists-the transistors are fully isolated dielectrically and physically within the SOT363-3 package. Data sheet Section 2 explicitly states "no mutual interference," and C_c = 1.5 pF is specified per transistor (collector-to-base), not inter-transistor.

What does the marking code '4F%' indicate on BC846S units?

'4F%' is the manufacturer's top-side marking: '4F' identifies the BC846S type, and '%' is a placeholder for the Nexperia manufacturing site code (e.g., 'A' for Germany, 'B' for China). This matches Table 4 in the official data sheet and confirms authenticity and traceability.