My Inquiry
My Account
Nexperia USA Inc. BC857-QVL
- Part No.:
- BC857-QVL
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BC857-QVL.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS PNP 45V 0.1A TO-236AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,966
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BC857-Q from Nexperia is a PNP general-purpose bipolar junction transistor (BJT) in SOT23 (TO-236AB) package, designed for low-voltage switching and linear amplification. It features VCEO = −45 V, IC = −100 mA, hFE = 125–800 (at VCE = −5 V, IC = −2 mA), AEC-Q101 qualified, and operates across −65 °C to +150 °C ambient range - used in automotive body control modules for load switching.
For engineers reviewing the BC857-Q datasheet, BC857-Q pinout, BC857-Q application, or BC857-Q equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, thermal resistance (Rth(j-a) = 500 K/W), saturation voltage (VCE(sat) ≤ −650 mV at IC = −100 mA, IB = −5 mA), base-emitter voltage (VBE ≈ −650 mV), and AEC-Q101 qualification status - all critical for automotive-grade discrete selection.
Technical Context
The BC857-Q implements a silicon planar epitaxial PNP BJT structure optimized for stable DC current gain across temperature (hFE maintains ≥125 from −55 °C to +150 °C). Its low leakage (ICBO ≤ −4 µA at Tj = 150 °C) and tight VCE(sat) distribution support reliable on/off control in 12 V automotive subsystems.
It operates with fixed-polarity biasing: base-emitter junction forward-biased for conduction, collector-emitter path controlled by base current. No integrated protection or logic-level drive - requires external base resistor network for current limiting and turn-off speed control.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | −45 V: Maximum safe collector-emitter voltage before breakdown; defines usable supply rail headroom in 24 V automotive circuits. |
| IC | −100 mA continuous: Absolute max collector current; sets upper bound for driving small relays, LEDs, or logic inputs. |
| hFE | 125–800 at VCE = −5 V, IC = −2 mA: Wide DC current gain range enables flexible base drive design without gain binning dependency. |
| VCE(sat) | ≤ −650 mV at IC = −100 mA, IB = −5 mA: Low saturation voltage minimizes power loss and heat generation in switching mode. |
| Rth(j-a) | 500 K/W on FR4 PCB: Thermal resistance determines junction temperature rise; requires derating above +25 °C ambient. |
| Tj(max) | +150 °C: Maximum allowable junction temperature; constrains power dissipation to ≤250 mW at Tamb ≤ 25 °C. |
| AEC-Q101 | Qualified: Meets stress test requirements for automotive discrete semiconductors - supports use in non-safety-critical vehicle ECUs. |
Pinout & Package
SOT23 (TO-236AB) plastic surface-mounted package: 3-lead, 1.3 mm × 2.9 mm footprint, 0.95 mm height, standard reflow-compatible layout per Fig. 15.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Base (B) | Current-controlled input node; requires series resistor to limit IB and ensure predictable hFE-based gain. |
| 2 | Emitter (E) | Common terminal for PNP operation; connected to higher potential (e.g., battery rail) in high-side switch configurations. |
| 3 | Collector (C) | Output current path; sinks load current to ground or lower-potential node when transistor is saturated. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualification | Validated for automotive environments including temperature cycling, humidity, and mechanical shock - reduces qualification effort for Tier 1 suppliers. |
| Wide hFE range (125–800) | Enables single-BOM flexibility across varying drive strength requirements without redesigning base bias networks. |
| VCE(sat) ≤ −650 mV @ IC = −100 mA | Reduces conduction loss to <13 mW at full load, easing thermal management in dense PCB layouts. |
| Low ICBO (≤ −4 µA @ 150 °C) | Maintains off-state integrity in hot under-hood conditions, preventing unintended leakage-triggered loads. |
| Standard SOT23 footprint | Ensures drop-in compatibility with existing pick-and-place equipment and reflow profiles used for legacy BC847/BC857 families. |
Applications
| Automotive Interior Lighting Control | Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Switching 12 V LED strips in door courtesy lighting and map lamps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PNP high-side switch controlling current flow from battery to LED anode. Use Value: VCEO = −45 V provides 3× margin over 12 V nominal rail; AEC-Q101 ensures reliability over 15-year vehicle lifetime. |
Use Scenario: Amplifying low-level analog signals from thermistors or potentiometers in PLC I/O modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear-mode PNP amplifier in common-emitter configuration with emitter degeneration. Use Value: hFE stability across −40 °C to +85 °C maintains consistent gain without recalibration. |
| Consumer Appliance Motor Driver Stage | Medical Diagnostic Equipment Power Sequencing |
|
Use Scenario: Driving small brushed DC motors in smart home appliances (e.g., HVAC damper actuators). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side switch (emitter grounded) enabling PWM-controlled motor speed regulation. Use Value: ICM = −200 mA peak handles motor startup surges; VBE(sat) ≤ −850 mV ensures fast turn-on with minimal base drive. |
Use Scenario: Enabling regulated power rails in portable ultrasound or patient monitor subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision enable/disable switch for LDO outputs during power-up sequencing. Use Value: Low leakage (IEBO ≤ −100 nA) prevents false triggering of downstream circuitry during standby. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| BC847-Q | NPN complement; identical SOT23 package, same AEC-Q101 rating, but opposite polarity and VCEO = +45 V. | Requires inverted control logic and low-side switching topology instead of high-side. | Select when circuit uses NPN-friendly biasing or shares layout with existing BC847-based designs. |
| BC857B-Q | Same family, tighter hFE bin (220–475); otherwise identical VCEO, IC, and thermal specs. | Preferred where predictable mid-range gain simplifies base resistor calculation and reduces production variance. | Choose for cost-sensitive automotive modules requiring statistical process control on current gain. |
Compared with BC847-Q, BC857-Q enables high-side switching without level-shifting; compared with BC857B-Q, it offers broader hFE tolerance for designs that accommodate gain variation via feedback or overdesign.
Availability
BC857-Q is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial sensor interfaces, and consumer appliance motor control requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for BC857-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 essential efficiency technologies - delivering high-performance, high-reliability discrete, logic, and MOSFET solutions.
The BC857-Q belongs to Nexperia's AEC-Q101-qualified general-purpose transistor product line, engineered specifically for robust, cost-effective switching and amplification in automotive and industrial environments.
FAQ
Is BC857-Q pin-compatible with BC847-Q?
No - BC857-Q is PNP and BC847-Q is NPN, so their pinouts are electrically complementary but not functionally interchangeable. Both use identical SOT23 physical pinning (1=Base, 2=Emitter, 3=Collector), but swapping them without circuit redesign will cause reverse biasing and failure to conduct.
What is the maximum operating temperature for BC857-Q in continuous use?
The BC857-Q supports continuous operation up to +150 °C junction temperature. At 25 °C ambient, its 250 mW power dissipation limit allows full −100 mA current; derating is required above 25 °C using Rth(j-a) = 500 K/W - e.g., max IC drops to ~60 mA at +85 °C ambient.
Does BC857-Q require a base resistor in switching applications?
Yes - a series base resistor is mandatory to limit IB and prevent thermal runaway. For IC = −100 mA and minimum hFE = 125, IB ≥ −0.8 mA is needed; with VBB = 3.3 V and VBE ≈ −0.65 V, RB ≤ 3.3 kΩ ensures saturation while avoiding excessive base current.
How does BC857-Q differ from BC857C-Q in performance?
BC857C-Q has higher guaranteed hFE (420–800 vs. 125–800 for BC857-Q) and identical VCEO, IC, and thermal specs. The 'C' suffix denotes a tighter DC current gain bin - useful where high, consistent gain is required without feedback, but not necessary for basic on/off switching.
BC857-QVL 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:
- 125 @ 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
BC857-QVL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BC857-QVL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BC857-QVL 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 BC857-QVL reliable?
The price and inventory of BC857-QVL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BC857-QVL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BC857-QVL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BC857-QVL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BC857-QVL?
BC857-QVL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BC857-QVL 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 BC857-QVL?
For technical support, including BC857-QVL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BC857-QVL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BC857-QVL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BC857-QVL 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 BC857-QVL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BC857-QVL?
All BC857-QVL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BC857-QVL, 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 BC857-QVL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BC857-QVL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BC857-QVL 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…
