Nexperia USA Inc. BC856S/ZLX

Overview

BC856S/ZLX from Nexperia is a dual PNP general-purpose transistor pair in SOT363-3 (TSSOP6) package, rated for −65 V V_CEO, −100 mA I_C, and 250 mW P_tot per device at T_amb ≤ 25 °C. It delivers closely matched h_FE (min 110 at −2 mA), low V_CE(sat) (−300 mV @ −100 mA/−5 mA), and <2.5 pF C_c, enabling compact dual-switching or differential amplification in space-constrained analog and logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BC856S datasheet, BC856S pinout, BC856S application, or BC856S equivalent, this device supports high-density board layouts requiring matched gain, minimal crosstalk, and thermal stability across −55 °C to +150 °C ambient operation - critical for precision bias networks, discrete logic inverters, and dual-channel signal conditioning stages.

Technical Context

The BC856S integrates two electrically isolated PNP transistors in a single SOT363-3 package with no mutual interference, enabling independent biasing and switching control. Its design emphasizes parameter matching (h_FE, V_BE, V_CE(sat)) and low inter-transistor capacitance (C_c ≤ 2.5 pF) to preserve signal integrity in differential configurations.

It operates under IEC 60134 absolute maximum ratings: −80 V V_CBO, −65 V V_CEO, −5 V V_EBO, and junction temperature up to 150 °C. Thermal resistance is 500 K/W (junction-to-ambient, standard FR4 footprint) and 230 K/W (junction-to-solder point), supporting reliable power dissipation in thermally constrained PCBs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT363-3 (TSSOP6) is a 6-pin, surface-mount plastic package measuring 2.2 mm × 1.35 mm × 0.95 mm (max height), with gull-wing leads and a pin 1 index marker on the top surface. The package supports reflow and wave soldering per IPC-J-STD-020 and IPC-J-STD-006 standards.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BC856S, BC857S trades 20 V breakdown margin for +15 points of minimum h_FE, while MBT3906DW1T1G offers comparable power handling but introduces layout risk due to incompatible pin assignment - making BC856S optimal for new designs needing robust 65 V tolerance and matched performance.

Availability

BC856S/ZLX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED driver pairs, differential amplifier bias networks, discrete logic inverters, and high-side load switches requiring stable component supply and guaranteed long-term sourcing.

Supply support for BC856S/ZLX 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 specializing in high-volume, high-reliability discrete and logic devices, with leadership in automotive-qualified and industrial-grade components.

The BC856S belongs to Nexperia's general-purpose bipolar transistor family, engineered for cost-sensitive, space-constrained applications demanding matched dual-transistor performance without sacrificing ruggedness or thermal stability.

FAQ

Is BC856S/ZLX automotive-qualified?

No. BC856S/ZLX is not automotive-qualified per AEC-Q101. It is rated for industrial and commercial use across −65 °C to +150 °C ambient and junction temperatures, but lacks automotive-specific stress testing, failure analysis reporting, or PPAP documentation required for vehicle applications.

What is the maximum pulsed collector current for BC856S/ZLX?

The datasheet specifies −100 mA as the continuous collector current rating. No pulsed I_C limit is defined beyond the absolute maximum rating of −100 mA. For transient loads, designers must ensure pulse duration, duty cycle, and thermal accumulation stay within the 250 mW (standard footprint) or 400 mW (enhanced pad) total power dissipation limits.

Does BC856S/ZLX support lead-free reflow soldering?

Yes. BC856S/ZLX is qualified for lead-free reflow per JEDEC J-STD-020, with a peak reflow temperature of 260 °C (10-second dwell). The recommended solder land pattern matches Figure 11 in the datasheet: 0.6 mm × 0.4 mm pads for pins 1–2 and 5–6, and 0.5 mm × 0.5 mm pads for pins 3–4.

How does the "ZLX" suffix affect BC856S specifications?

The "ZLX" suffix denotes a specific tape-and-reel packaging variant (3,000 units per reel) and manufacturing site code, per Table 4 marking codes. It has no impact on electrical characteristics, thermal performance, or mechanical dimensions - all parameters remain identical to the base BC856S type number.