Nexperia USA Inc. BC857B-QR
- Part No.:
- BC857B-QR
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BC857B-QR.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS PNP 45V 0.1A TO-236AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:20,276
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Product details
Overview
BC857B-Q from Nexperia is a PNP general-purpose bipolar junction transistor in SOT23 (TO-236AB) package, rated for −45 V VCEO, −100 mA IC, and DC current gain (hFE) of 220–475 at VCE = −5 V and IC = −2 mA. It serves as a low-voltage switching or linear amplification device in automotive signal conditioning and power management circuits.
For engineers reviewing the BC857B-Q datasheet, BC857B-Q pinout, BC857B-Q application, or BC857B-Q equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance (500 K/W), saturation voltage (VCE(sat) ≤ −650 mV at IC = −100 mA), and exact pin mapping - all essential for automotive-grade PCB layout and reliability validation.
Technical Context
This PNP transistor operates with open-base collector-emitter breakdown of −45 V and emitter-base breakdown of −5 V, supporting robust biasing in negative-rail signal paths. Its hFE range (220–475) ensures predictable current amplification across temperature (−55 °C to +150 °C) and collector currents from −1 mA to −100 mA.
VCE(sat) remains ≤ −650 mV under high-current switching (IC = −100 mA, IB = −5 mA), enabling efficient low-side load control. The 4.5 pF collector capacitance and 100 MHz fT support stable operation up to audio and low-speed digital frequencies without unintended oscillation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | −45 V: Maximum safe collector-emitter voltage with base open; defines rail compatibility in 36 V automotive systems. |
| IC | −100 mA continuous: Supports driving small relays, LEDs, or logic-level inputs without external heat sinking. |
| hFE | 220–475 at VCE = −5 V, IC = −2 mA: Enables precise base resistor selection for stable DC bias in amplifier stages. |
| VCE(sat) | ≤ −650 mV at IC = −100 mA, IB = −5 mA: Minimizes conduction loss in high-duty-cycle switching applications. |
| Rth(j-a) | 500 K/W on FR4 PCB: Determines junction temperature rise under 250 mW dissipation; critical for thermal margin in sealed enclosures. |
| fT | 100 MHz: Confirms suitability for audio preamplifiers and low-speed digital interface buffering without phase shift issues. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified: Meets stress-test requirements for automotive discrete semiconductors, including temperature cycling and HTRB. |
Pinout & Package
SOT23 (TO-236AB) surface-mount plastic package with 3 leads; 1.9 mm × 1.3 mm footprint, 0.95 mm height, and standard reflow-compatible solder pad layout.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Base (B) | Current-controlled input node; requires series resistor to limit IB and ensure saturation or cutoff per drive logic. |
| 2 | Emitter (E) | Common terminal tied to higher potential rail (e.g., battery +12 V); polarity defines PNP operation. |
| 3 | Collector (C) | Output terminal sourcing current to load; connects to switched ground or lower-potential node. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive under-hood environments including 1000-hour high-temperature reverse bias (HTRB) and temperature cycling. |
| Low VCE(sat) | −650 mV max at full rated current enables >93% efficiency in 12 V load switches (e.g., HVAC fan control). |
| Wide hFE range | 220–475 allows consistent gain across production lots without binning, simplifying BOM management for Tier 1 suppliers. |
| Small SOT23 footprint | Enables high-density placement on compact ECUs and ADAS sensor modules without thermal crowding. |
| −5 V VEBO | Permits reliable base-emitter reverse biasing during PWM dead-time, preventing latch-up in half-bridge drivers. |
Applications
| Automotive Door Module | Industrial Sensor Interface |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving window lift motor enable signals and mirror fold/unfold relays in body control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PNP switch controlling 12 V relay coils with fast turn-off via base pull-down. Use Value: −650 mV VCE(sat) minimizes coil heating during frequent actuation cycles; AEC-Q101 ensures 15-year field reliability. |
Use Scenario: Level-shifting and buffering analog sensor outputs (e.g., thermistor, pressure transducer) into ADC inputs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Emitter-follower amplifier providing low-output-impedance drive while isolating sensitive front-end circuitry. Use Value: 220–475 hFE guarantees stable gain over −40 °C to +125 °C ambient, eliminating calibration drift. |
| LED Tail Light Driver | Power Supply Enable Circuit |
|
Use Scenario: Switching high-brightness brake/turn LEDs in rear lighting assemblies with PWM dimming. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side current sink configured as PNP high-side switch with base driven by MCU GPIO. Use Value: 100 MHz fT supports clean 1–2 kHz PWM edges without overshoot; 4.5 pF Cc prevents RF coupling into CAN bus traces. |
Use Scenario: Enabling 5 V or 3.3 V LDOs in infotainment head units based on ignition key position detection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Logic-level translator converting 3.3 V microcontroller output to 12 V enable signal for downstream regulators. Use Value: −45 V VCEO withstands load-dump transients up to ISO 7637-2 Pulse 5a; −5 V VEBO blocks reverse leakage during sleep mode. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP general-purpose transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BC857B,115 (Nexperia) | No "-Q" suffix; not AEC-Q101 qualified; identical electrical specs and SOT23 package. | Restricted to consumer or industrial use where automotive qualification is not required. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs automotive compliance; same footprint and schematic symbol. |
| MMBT3906LT1G (onsemi) | VCEO = −40 V (5 V lower); hFE = 100–300 (narrower range); also AEC-Q101 qualified. | Marginally lower voltage headroom limits use in 42 V mild-hybrid systems; tighter hFE reduces design flexibility. | Choose only if legacy BOM already uses MMBT3906LT1G; verify VCEO margin in 36 V nominal systems. |
Compared with BC857B-Q, BC857B,115 offers identical performance at lower cost but lacks automotive qualification, while MMBT3906LT1G trades voltage margin and gain spread for broader industry adoption - making BC857B-Q optimal for new AEC-Q101-compliant designs requiring guaranteed −45 V operation and wide hFE.
Availability
BC857B-Q is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor interfaces, LED lighting control, and power supply enable circuits requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.
Supply support for BC857B-Q 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 core R&D in Nijmegen, Netherlands.
The BC856-Q/BC857-Q/BC858-Q family was designed specifically for automotive signal switching and amplification, emphasizing AEC-Q101 compliance, thermal robustness on FR4 PCBs, and tight parametric consistency across production lots.
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable junction temperature for BC857B-Q?
The absolute maximum junction temperature (Tj) is 150 °C, as defined in Table 6 of the datasheet. This limit applies under all operating conditions, including pulsed and continuous modes. Derating is required above Tamb = 25 °C using the specified Rth(j-a) = 500 K/W to ensure Tj stays within specification during sustained 100 mA operation.
Does BC857B-Q support operation at −55 °C ambient?
Yes - the device is fully characterized from −55 °C to +150 °C ambient (Tamb). Figures 6–9 confirm hFE, VBE, and VCE(sat) behavior across this full range, with no parameter degradation at cold extremes. This makes it suitable for engine bay and exterior lighting applications.
How does the "-Q" suffix affect packaging or marking?
The "-Q" suffix denotes AEC-Q101 qualification and corresponds to specific wafer fab and assembly/test flow controls. Marking code is "3F%", where "%" is a site-specific placeholder; physical SOT23 package dimensions and lead finish (tin-plated) match non-Q variants exactly.
Can BC857B-Q replace BC857C-Q in a design?
No - BC857C-Q has hFE = 420–800, significantly higher than BC857B-Q's 220–475. Substituting without recalculating base drive risks insufficient saturation or excessive base current consumption. Electrical differences are documented in Tables 2 and 4 of the datasheet.
BC857B-QR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Transistor Type:
- PNP
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 100 mA
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 45 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 650mV @ 5mA, 100mA
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 15nA (ICBO)
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 220 @ 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
BC857B-QR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BC857B-QR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC857B-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 BC857B-QR reliable?
The price and inventory of BC857B-QR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC857B-QR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BC857B-QR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC857B-QR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BC857B-QR?
BC857B-QR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BC857B-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 BC857B-QR?
For technical support, including BC857B-QR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC857B-QR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BC857B-QR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BC857B-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 BC857B-QR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC857B-QR?
All BC857B-QR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC857B-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 BC857B-QR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BC857B-QR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BC857B-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
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