NXP Semiconductors BFG97,135

Overview

BFG97 from NXP Semiconductors is an NPN planar epitaxial wideband RF transistor in SOT223 package, rated for 5 GHz operation with 5.5 GHz transition frequency (f_T), 16 dB maximum unilateral power gain at 500 MHz, and 750 mV output voltage into 75 Ω load-designed specifically for MATV (Master Antenna Television) signal amplification stages.

For engineers reviewing the BFG97 datasheet, BFG97 pinout, BFG97 application, or BFG97 equivalent, this page delivers verified DC and RF parameters-including h_FE = 25–80, V_CEO = 15 V, P_tot = 1 W, C_e = 6.5 pF, and intermodulation distortion d₂ = −56 dB-critical for broadband CATV amplifier design, impedance matching, and thermal layout validation.

Technical Context

The BFG97 operates as a common-emitter RF amplifier with optimized emitter-base and collector-base junction capacitances (C_e = 6.5 pF, C_c = 1.5 pF, C_re = 1 pF) to support stable wideband gain up to 800 MHz. Its SOT223 package features an exposed collector tab for direct heatsinking, enabling thermal resistance R_{th j-s} = 50 K/W.

It delivers high linearity in MATV applications: second-order intermodulation distortion d₂ reaches −56 dB at f(p+q) = 450 MHz and −53 dB at 810 MHz, with Vo = 50 dBmV under matched 75 Ω conditions. The device is biased at IC = 70 mA, VCE = 10 V for optimal GUM and fT performance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT223 plastic surface-mounted package with 4 leads and exposed collector tab for thermal conduction. Package outline conforms to SC-73 standard (JEDEC MO-178AA); dimensions: 6.7 × 3.7 × 1.8 mm (L × W × H), lead pitch 2.3 mm.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN wideband RF transistor applications.

Compared with BFG97, the BFG98 offers higher frequency headroom but reduced gain flatness above 800 MHz, while the BFG31 enables complementary designs but demands full circuit redesign due to polarity and pin reversal-neither is pin-compatible, and both require layout and bias verification.

Availability

BFG97 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for MATV distribution amplifiers, CATV trunk line boosters, UHF signal boosters, and RF test equipment requiring stable component supply with long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for BFG97 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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company specializing in high-performance RF, analog, and interface solutions, with roots in Philips' semiconductor division and leadership in broadcast and automotive electronics.

The BFG97 belongs to NXP's legacy discrete RF transistor family designed explicitly for analog television signal distribution-optimized for 75 Ω impedance, DIN-compliant distortion, and thermally robust SOT223 packaging in MATV infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency supported by the BFG97?

The BFG97 has a typical transition frequency (f_T) of 5.5 GHz, with verified maximum unilateral power gain (GUM) of 12 dB at 800 MHz and 16 dB at 500 MHz. Its usable small-signal bandwidth extends reliably to 862 MHz for MATV applications, as confirmed by S-parameter plots and intermodulation testing in the official datasheet.

Is the BFG97 suitable for 75 Ω CATV applications?

Yes-the BFG97 is explicitly characterized for 75 Ω systems: output voltage Vo = 750 mV into 75 Ω at dim = −60 dB, test circuits use 75 Ω microstrips and terminations, and distortion metrics comply with DIN 45004B. Its C_e = 6.5 pF and C_c = 1.5 pF support direct matching to 75 Ω without complex networks.

What is the thermal resistance and heatsinking requirement for the BFG97?

The BFG97 has a thermal resistance R_{th j-s} = 50 K/W from junction to soldering point (collector tab). To sustain 1 W total power dissipation, the collector tab must be soldered to ≥2 cm² of 2-oz copper on the PCB. No external heatsink is required if ambient temperature remains ≤50 °C and board copper is adequately sized.

Does the BFG97 have a PNP complement, and is it pin-compatible?

Yes-the BFG31 is the designated PNP complement, but it is not pin-compatible with the BFG97. While both use SOT223, the BFG31 swaps emitter and collector terminals (Pin 1 = collector, Pin 4 = emitter), requiring full schematic and layout revision-not a drop-in replacement.

What are the key linearity specifications of the BFG97 for multi-channel TV systems?

The BFG97 achieves second-order intermodulation distortion (d₂) of −56 dB at 450 MHz and −53 dB at 810 MHz, measured at Vo = 50 dBmV into 75 Ω. These values ensure minimal crosstalk between adjacent analog TV channels in MATV/CATV distribution, satisfying DIN 45004B requirements for commercial installations.