Infineon Technologies BCR146

Overview

BCR146 from Infineon Technologies is an NPN silicon digital transistor with integrated bias resistors (R1 = 47 kΩ, R2 = 22 kΩ), designed for switching, inverting, interfacing, and driver applications in automotive and industrial control circuits. It features V_CEO = 50 V, I_C = 70 mA, V_CE(sat) ≤ 0.3 V at I_C = 10 mA/I_B = 0.5 mA, and AEC-Q101 qualification.

For engineers reviewing the BCR146 datasheet, BCR146 pinout, BCR146 application, or BCR146 equivalent, key selection considerations include its built-in resistor network enabling single-pin base drive, guaranteed V_i(on)/V_i(off) thresholds for reliable logic-level interfacing, and SOT23 package suitability for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

This digital transistor integrates two precision bias resistors (R1 = 47 kΩ ±22%, R2 = 22 kΩ) to form a monolithic NPN switch with internal voltage-divider base biasing - eliminating external components for TTL/CMOS-compatible input drive. Its h_FE ≥ 50 at I_C = 5 mA ensures robust saturation under standard logic output conditions.

Thermal performance is defined by R_thJS ≤ 240 K/W and P_tot = 200 mW at T_S ≤ 102°C, supporting operation up to T_j = 150°C. The device's f_T = 150 MHz enables stable switching up to ~10 MHz in practical digital applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

BCR146 is housed in a RoHS-compliant SOT23 plastic surface-mount package (JEDEC TO-236AB), with 3 terminals: Pin 1 = Base (B), Pin 2 = Emitter (E), Pin 3 = Collector (C). The package measures 2.9 mm × 1.3 mm × 1.0 mm and supports reflow soldering per J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar digital transistor switching applications.

Compared with BC847B, BCR146 reduces component count and layout complexity; compared with NSVD120DP033T1G, it offers higher noise immunity in 3.3 V systems but is unsuitable for sub-2 V logic families.

Availability

BCR146 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, industrial PLC input modules, and consumer appliance motor control requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101 compliance.

Supply support for BCR146 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

Infineon Technologies AG is a German semiconductor manufacturer specializing in power management, automotive ICs, and industrial control solutions.

The BCR146 belongs to Infineon's family of automotive-qualified digital transistors, engineered specifically for replacing discrete BJT + resistor combinations in cost- and space-sensitive control nodes.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature for BCR146?

The BCR146 has a junction temperature limit of 150°C and is rated for storage between −65°C and +150°C. Its AEC-Q101 qualification covers operation from −40°C to +125°C ambient, with derated power above T_S = 102°C per the P_tot vs. T_S curve.

Can BCR146 be used with 3.3 V microcontrollers?

Yes - its V_i(on) range (1.5–4.0 V) and V_i(off) range (1.2–2.6 V) ensure reliable turn-on with 3.3 V logic outputs and noise-immune turn-off, even with typical 0.3–0.5 V ground bounce or supply ripple.

Is BCR146 pin-compatible with BC847-type transistors?

No - although both use SOT23 packages, BCR146 has Base (Pin 1), Emitter (Pin 2), Collector (Pin 3), whereas BC847 variants typically use Emitter (Pin 1), Base (Pin 2), Collector (Pin 3); physical pin mapping differs and substitution requires PCB redesign.

Does BCR146 support PWM switching?

Yes - with f_T = 150 MHz and t_on/t_off in the nanosecond range (per typical switching curves), BCR146 supports PWM frequencies up to 10 MHz in low-duty-cycle applications, provided layout minimizes parasitic inductance and load capacitance remains below 100 pF.