My Inquiry
My Account
Nexperia USA Inc. BC857C/DG/B3,215
- Part No.:
- BC857C/DG/B3,215
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BC857C/DG/B3,215.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS PNP 45V 0.1A TO-236AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:9,626
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BC857C/DG/B3,215 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 420–800 at VCE = −5 V and IC = −2 mA. It serves as a low-voltage, low-current switching or amplification device in signal-level analog and digital interface circuits.
For engineers reviewing the BC857C/DG/B3,215 datasheet, BC857C/DG/B3,215 pinout, BC857C/DG/B3,215 application, or BC857C/DG/B3,215 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, SOT23 terminal mapping, real-world use cases in level-shifting and load control, and validated alternative transistors with precise functional distinctions.
Technical Context
This transistor operates in active, saturation, and cutoff regions with guaranteed hFE ≥ 420 at low collector current (−2 mA), enabling stable biasing in linear amplifier stages and predictable on/off behavior in digital logic interfaces. Its −5 V VEBO and −50 V VCBO support safe operation in negative-rail signal conditioning paths.
Thermal resistance Rth(j-a) is 500 K/W on FR4 PCB, limiting continuous power dissipation to 250 mW at Tamb ≤ 25 °C. Saturation voltages - VCE(sat) ≤ −650 mV at IC = −100 mA/IB = −5 mA and VBE(sat) ≤ −850 mV under same conditions - define its efficiency in low-loss switching applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | −45 V: Maximum allowable collector-emitter voltage with base open; defines safe operating range in negative-supply circuits. |
| IC | −100 mA: Continuous DC collector current rating; sets upper limit for load-driving capability in switching designs. |
| hFE | 420–800 at VCE = −5 V, IC = −2 mA: High and tightly binned DC current gain enables precise bias network design with minimal component count. |
| VCE(sat) | ≤ −650 mV at IC = −100 mA, IB = −5 mA: Low saturation voltage minimizes power loss and heating during switch-on state. |
| VEBO | −5 V: Emitter-base breakdown voltage; ensures robustness against reverse-bias stress in level-shifter or pull-up configurations. |
| fT | 100 MHz at VCE = −5 V, IC = −10 mA: Transition frequency supports RF-coupled preamplifier and high-speed switching up to ~10 MHz. |
Pinout & Package
SOT23 (TO-236AB) plastic surface-mounted package with 3 leads; compact 2.9 mm × 1.3 mm footprint, 1.1 mm height, and standard reflow-compatible pad layout per Fig. 15.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Base (B) | Control input node; requires current-limited drive (IB ≤ −5 mA typical for full saturation) to enable conduction between emitter and collector. |
| 2 | Emitter (E) | Common reference terminal in common-emitter configuration; connected to most-positive rail in PNP switching applications. |
| 3 | Collector (C) | Output node; sinks current from load to emitter when biased on; polarity must respect PNP convention (VE > VC). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| High hFE binning | 420–800 range ensures consistent gain across production lots, reducing need for trim resistors in amplifier feedback networks. |
| Low VCE(sat) | ≤ −650 mV at rated current enables <100 mW dissipation in saturated switch mode, supporting thermally constrained PCB layouts. |
| SOT23 compatibility | Standard JEDEC TO-236AB footprint allows drop-in replacement in existing designs and automated placement on high-density boards. |
| −50 V VCBO | Supports operation in −45 V rail systems with 5 V margin, preventing avalanche breakdown during transient overvoltage events. |
Applications
| Logic-Level Signal Inversion | Low-Side Load Switching |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Converting TTL/CMOS high-to-low signals into inverted outputs for driving complementary inputs or enable lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PNP switch configured in common-emitter topology, where base drive controls emitter-to-collector current flow with nanosecond-scale turn-off delay. Use Value: Delivers clean inversion with <1 µs propagation delay and rail-to-rail output swing due to low VCE(sat) and high hFE. |
Use Scenario: Controlling LED arrays, small relays, or sensor bias networks from microcontroller GPIO pins with limited sink capability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Active-low switch with emitter tied to VCC, collector driving load to ground; base driven by MCU output through current-limiting resistor. Use Value: Enables reliable 100 mA load control using only 5 mA base current, minimizing MCU I/O loading and simplifying drive circuitry. |
| Analog Level Shifting | Current Mirror Reference |
|
Use Scenario: Translating ±5 V op-amp output signals to −12 V referenced domains in mixed-supply instrumentation front-ends. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PNP emitter follower stage providing bidirectional voltage translation while maintaining signal integrity and low output impedance. Use Value: Achieves <0.5% gain error and <100 µV offset drift over −55 °C to +150 °C due to matched hFE and thermal stability. |
Use Scenario: Building precision 1:1 current mirrors in analog sensor signal conditioning chains requiring matched transistor characteristics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: One half of a monolithic-matched pair (with identical BC857C die variant) used to replicate reference current with <2% mismatch across temperature. Use Value: Leverages tight hFE binning (420–800) and low VBE variation (<50 mV) to maintain mirror accuracy without external trimming. |
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,215 | hFE = 220–475 (lower gain range); identical VCEO, VCBO, and package. | Less suitable for low-base-drive amplifier stages but adequate for saturated switching where gain margin is not critical. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs gain consistency requirements and base drive current is readily available. |
| MMBT3906LT1G | VCEO = −40 V (5 V lower); hFE = 100–300 at IC = −10 mA; same SOT23 package and pinout. | Not recommended for −45 V rail applications or high-gain bias networks; better suited for legacy designs with looser voltage margins. | Choose only if redesign is constrained by legacy BOM or qualification requirements; verify VCEO derating in final system. |
Compared with BC857C/DG/B3,215, BC857B offers reduced gain consistency at lower cost, while MMBT3906LT1G trades voltage headroom and gain for broader industry adoption - making BC857C optimal for new designs demanding precision low-current amplification or robust −45 V operation.
Availability
BC857C/DG/B3,215 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for logic-level inversion, low-side load switching, analog level shifting, and current mirror reference applications requiring stable component supply and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for BC857C/DG/B3,215 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 and industrial-grade components.
The BC856/BC857/BC858 series targets cost-sensitive, space-constrained applications in consumer, industrial, and communications equipment where proven SOT23 reliability and parametric consistency are essential.
FAQ
What is the maximum ambient temperature for continuous operation of BC857C/DG/B3,215?
The device is rated for continuous operation from −65 °C to +150 °C ambient temperature. At Tamb = 25 °C, it dissipates up to 250 mW; derating is required above 25 °C at 3.3 mW/°C per the thermal resistance of 500 K/W on standard FR4 PCB.
Can BC857C/DG/B3,215 replace BC857A in an existing design?
Yes, but with caution: BC857C has higher hFE (420–800 vs. 125–250), which may increase base current demand in saturated switching or cause instability in high-gain amplifier feedback loops. Verify bias point shift and thermal margin before substitution.
Is BC857C/DG/B3,215 qualified for automotive applications?
No - this part is non-automotive qualified per Nexperia's Rev. 9 data sheet. Automotive-grade equivalents (e.g., BC857C-Q) require separate qualification and are marked with "-Q" suffix; use only those parts in AEC-Q101-compliant systems.
What is the typical transition frequency (fT) and under what conditions is it measured?
The typical fT is 100 MHz, measured at VCE = −5 V, IC = −10 mA, and f = 100 MHz. This value reflects small-signal high-frequency performance and remains usable up to ~10 MHz in practical switching or amplification circuits with proper layout.
BC857C/DG/B3,215 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:
- Obsolete
- 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:
- 125 @ 2mA, 5V
- Power - Max:
- 250 mW
- Frequency - Transition:
- 100MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-236AB
BC857C/DG/B3,215 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BC857C/DG/B3,215 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC857C/DG/B3,215 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 BC857C/DG/B3,215 reliable?
The price and inventory of BC857C/DG/B3,215 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC857C/DG/B3,215 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BC857C/DG/B3,215?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC857C/DG/B3,215 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BC857C/DG/B3,215?
BC857C/DG/B3,215 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BC857C/DG/B3,215 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 BC857C/DG/B3,215?
For technical support, including BC857C/DG/B3,215 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC857C/DG/B3,215 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BC857C/DG/B3,215 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BC857C/DG/B3,215 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 BC857C/DG/B3,215 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC857C/DG/B3,215?
All BC857C/DG/B3,215 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC857C/DG/B3,215, 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 BC857C/DG/B3,215 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BC857C/DG/B3,215:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BC857C/DG/B3,215 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…
