BC846 Transistor: Circuit, Pinout, and Datasheet
Trans GP BJT NPN 65V 0.1A 3-Pin SOT-23 T/R
The BC846 is an NPN general-purpose Bipolar Transistor housed in a surface-mount plastic package. This article mainly introduces circuit, pinout, datasheet and other information about Diodes Incorporated BC846.
BC846 Description
The BC846 is an NPN general-purpose Bipolar Transistor housed in a surface-mount plastic package. It is used in AF input stages and driver applications, suitable for switching and amplification applications. They are housed in the SC−70/SOT−323 which is designed for low power surface mount applications.
BC846 Pinout

Pinout
BC846 CAD Model

Symbol

Footprint

3D Model
BC846 Features
• Ideally Suited for Automatic Insertion
• Complementary PNP Types: BC856 – BC858
• For Switching and AF Amplifier Applications
• Totally Lead-Free & Fully RoHS Compliant
• Halogen and Antimony Free. "Green" Device
• Qualified to AEC-Q101 Standards for High Reliability
• PPAP Capable
Specifications
- TypeParameter
- Factory Lead Time15 Weeks
- Contact Plating
Contact plating (finish) provides corrosion protection for base metals and optimizes the mechanical and electrical properties of the contact interfaces.
Tin - Mount
In electronic components, the term "Mount" typically refers to the method or process of physically attaching or fixing a component onto a circuit board or other electronic device. This can involve soldering, adhesive bonding, or other techniques to secure the component in place. The mounting process is crucial for ensuring proper electrical connections and mechanical stability within the electronic system. Different components may have specific mounting requirements based on their size, shape, and function, and manufacturers provide guidelines for proper mounting procedures to ensure optimal performance and reliability of the electronic device.
Surface Mount - Mounting Type
The "Mounting Type" in electronic components refers to the method used to attach or connect a component to a circuit board or other substrate, such as through-hole, surface-mount, or panel mount.
Surface Mount - Package / Case
refers to the protective housing that encases an electronic component, providing mechanical support, electrical connections, and thermal management.
TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3 - Number of Pins3
- Weight7.994566mg
- Transistor Element Material
The "Transistor Element Material" parameter in electronic components refers to the material used to construct the transistor within the component. Transistors are semiconductor devices that amplify or switch electronic signals and are a fundamental building block in electronic circuits. The material used for the transistor element can significantly impact the performance and characteristics of the component. Common materials used for transistor elements include silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide, each with its own unique properties and suitability for different applications. The choice of transistor element material is crucial in designing electronic components to meet specific performance requirements such as speed, power efficiency, and temperature tolerance.
SILICON - Collector-Emitter Breakdown Voltage65V
- Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage200mV
- Number of Elements1
- hFEMin200
- Operating Temperature
The operating temperature is the range of ambient temperature within which a power supply, or any other electrical equipment, operate in. This ranges from a minimum operating temperature, to a peak or maximum operating temperature, outside which, the power supply may fail.
-65°C~150°C TJ - Packaging
Semiconductor package is a carrier / shell used to contain and cover one or more semiconductor components or integrated circuits. The material of the shell can be metal, plastic, glass or ceramic.
Tape & Reel (TR) - Published2011
- JESD-609 Code
The "JESD-609 Code" in electronic components refers to a standardized marking code that indicates the lead-free solder composition and finish of electronic components for compliance with environmental regulations.
e3 - Pbfree Code
The "Pbfree Code" parameter in electronic components refers to the code or marking used to indicate that the component is lead-free. Lead (Pb) is a toxic substance that has been widely used in electronic components for many years, but due to environmental concerns, there has been a shift towards lead-free alternatives. The Pbfree Code helps manufacturers and users easily identify components that do not contain lead, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting environmentally friendly practices. It is important to pay attention to the Pbfree Code when selecting electronic components to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for lead-free applications.
yes - Part Status
Parts can have many statuses as they progress through the configuration, analysis, review, and approval stages.
Active - Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL)
Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) is a standardized rating that indicates the susceptibility of electronic components, particularly semiconductors, to moisture-induced damage during storage and the soldering process, defining the allowable exposure time to ambient conditions before they require special handling or baking to prevent failures
1 (Unlimited) - Number of Terminations3
- ECCN Code
An ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) is an alphanumeric code used by the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security to identify and categorize electronic components and other dual-use items that may require an export license based on their technical characteristics and potential for military use.
EAR99 - Additional Feature
Any Feature, including a modified Existing Feature, that is not an Existing Feature.
HIGH RELIABILITY - Max Power Dissipation
The maximum power that the MOSFET can dissipate continuously under the specified thermal conditions.
300mW - Terminal Position
In electronic components, the term "Terminal Position" refers to the physical location of the connection points on the component where external electrical connections can be made. These connection points, known as terminals, are typically used to attach wires, leads, or other components to the main body of the electronic component. The terminal position is important for ensuring proper connectivity and functionality of the component within a circuit. It is often specified in technical datasheets or component specifications to help designers and engineers understand how to properly integrate the component into their circuit designs.
DUAL - Terminal Form
Occurring at or forming the end of a series, succession, or the like; closing; concluding.
GULL WING - Peak Reflow Temperature (Cel)
Peak Reflow Temperature (Cel) is a parameter that specifies the maximum temperature at which an electronic component can be exposed during the reflow soldering process. Reflow soldering is a common method used to attach electronic components to a circuit board. The Peak Reflow Temperature is crucial because it ensures that the component is not damaged or degraded during the soldering process. Exceeding the specified Peak Reflow Temperature can lead to issues such as component failure, reduced performance, or even permanent damage to the component. It is important for manufacturers and assemblers to adhere to the recommended Peak Reflow Temperature to ensure the reliability and functionality of the electronic components.
260 - Frequency
In electronic components, the parameter "Frequency" refers to the rate at which a signal oscillates or cycles within a given period of time. It is typically measured in Hertz (Hz) and represents how many times a signal completes a full cycle in one second. Frequency is a crucial aspect in electronic components as it determines the behavior and performance of various devices such as oscillators, filters, and communication systems. Understanding the frequency characteristics of components is essential for designing and analyzing electronic circuits to ensure proper functionality and compatibility with other components in a system.
300MHz - Time@Peak Reflow Temperature-Max (s)
Time@Peak Reflow Temperature-Max (s) refers to the maximum duration that an electronic component can be exposed to the peak reflow temperature during the soldering process, which is crucial for ensuring reliable solder joint formation without damaging the component.
40 - Base Part Number
The "Base Part Number" (BPN) in electronic components serves a similar purpose to the "Base Product Number." It refers to the primary identifier for a component that captures the essential characteristics shared by a group of similar components. The BPN provides a fundamental way to reference a family or series of components without specifying all the variations and specific details.
BC846 - Pin Count
a count of all of the component leads (or pins)
3 - Element Configuration
The distribution of electrons of an atom or molecule (or other physical structure) in atomic or molecular orbitals.
Single - Power Dissipation
the process by which an electronic or electrical device produces heat (energy loss or waste) as an undesirable derivative of its primary action.
310mW - Transistor Application
In the context of electronic components, the parameter "Transistor Application" refers to the specific purpose or function for which a transistor is designed and used. Transistors are semiconductor devices that can amplify or switch electronic signals and are commonly used in various electronic circuits. The application of a transistor can vary widely depending on its design and characteristics, such as whether it is intended for audio amplification, digital logic, power control, or radio frequency applications. Understanding the transistor application is important for selecting the right type of transistor for a particular circuit or system to ensure optimal performance and functionality.
SWITCHING - Gain Bandwidth Product
The gain–bandwidth product (designated as GBWP, GBW, GBP, or GB) for an amplifier is the product of the amplifier's bandwidth and the gain at which the bandwidth is measured.
300MHz - Polarity/Channel Type
In electronic components, the parameter "Polarity/Channel Type" refers to the characteristic that determines the direction of current flow or the type of signal that can be accommodated by the component. For components like diodes and transistors, polarity indicates the direction in which current can flow through the component, such as forward bias or reverse bias for diodes. For components like MOSFETs or JFETs, the channel type refers to whether the component is an N-channel or P-channel device, which determines the type of charge carriers that carry current through the component. Understanding the polarity or channel type of a component is crucial for proper circuit design and ensuring that the component is connected correctly to achieve the desired functionality.
NPN - Transistor Type
Transistor type refers to the classification of transistors based on their operation and construction. The two primary types are bipolar junction transistors (BJTs) and field-effect transistors (FETs). BJTs use current to control the flow of current, while FETs utilize voltage to control current flow. Each type has its own subtypes, such as NPN and PNP for BJTs, and MOSFETs and JFETs for FETs, impacting their applications and characteristics in electronic circuits.
NPN - Collector Emitter Voltage (VCEO)
Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCEO) is a key parameter in electronic components, particularly in transistors. It refers to the maximum voltage that can be applied between the collector and emitter terminals of a transistor while the base terminal is open or not conducting. Exceeding this voltage limit can lead to breakdown and potential damage to the transistor. VCEO is crucial for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the transistor within its specified limits. Designers must carefully consider VCEO when selecting transistors for a circuit to prevent overvoltage conditions that could compromise the performance and longevity of the component.
65V - Max Collector Current
Max Collector Current is a parameter used to specify the maximum amount of current that can safely flow through the collector terminal of a transistor or other electronic component without causing damage. It is typically expressed in units of amperes (A) and is an important consideration when designing circuits to ensure that the component operates within its safe operating limits. Exceeding the specified max collector current can lead to overheating, degradation of performance, or even permanent damage to the component. Designers must carefully consider this parameter when selecting components and designing circuits to ensure reliable and safe operation.
100mA - DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce
The parameter "DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce" in electronic components refers to the minimum value of the DC current gain, denoted as hFE, under specific operating conditions of collector current (Ic) and collector-emitter voltage (Vce). The DC current gain hFE represents the ratio of the collector current to the base current in a bipolar junction transistor (BJT), indicating the amplification capability of the transistor. The minimum hFE value at a given Ic and Vce helps determine the transistor's performance and efficiency in amplifying signals within a circuit. Designers use this parameter to ensure proper transistor selection and performance in various electronic applications.
110 @ 2mA 5V - Current - Collector Cutoff (Max)
The parameter "Current - Collector Cutoff (Max)" refers to the maximum current at which a transistor or other electronic component will cease to conduct current between the collector and emitter terminals. This parameter is important in determining the maximum current that can flow through the component when it is in the cutoff state. Exceeding this maximum cutoff current can lead to malfunction or damage of the component. It is typically specified in the component's datasheet and is crucial for proper circuit design and operation.
15nA - Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic
The parameter "Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic" in electronic components refers to the maximum voltage drop across the collector-emitter junction when the transistor is in saturation mode. This parameter is specified at a certain base current (Ib) and collector current (Ic) levels. It indicates the minimum voltage required to keep the transistor fully conducting in saturation mode, ensuring that the transistor operates efficiently and does not enter the cutoff region. Designers use this parameter to ensure proper transistor operation and to prevent overheating or damage to the component.
600mV @ 5mA, 100mA - Transition Frequency
Transition Frequency in electronic components refers to the frequency at which a device can transition from one state to another, typically defining the upper limit of its operating frequency. It is a critical parameter in determining the speed and performance of active components like transistors and integrated circuits. This frequency is influenced by factors such as capacitance, resistance, and the inherent characteristics of the materials used in the component's construction. Understanding transition frequency is essential for optimizing circuit designs and ensuring reliable signal processing in various applications.
300MHz - Max Breakdown Voltage
The "Max Breakdown Voltage" of an electronic component refers to the maximum voltage that the component can withstand across its terminals before it breaks down and allows current to flow uncontrollably. This parameter is crucial in determining the operating limits and safety margins of the component in a circuit. Exceeding the maximum breakdown voltage can lead to permanent damage or failure of the component. It is typically specified by the manufacturer in datasheets to guide engineers and designers in selecting the appropriate components for their applications.
65V - Collector Base Voltage (VCBO)
Collector Base Voltage (VCBO) is the maximum allowable voltage that can be applied between the collector and base terminals of a bipolar junction transistor when the emitter is open. It is a critical parameter that determines the voltage rating of the transistor and helps prevent breakdown in the collector-base junction. Exceeding this voltage can lead to permanent damage or failure of the component.
80V - Emitter Base Voltage (VEBO)
Emitter Base Voltage (VEBO) is a parameter used in electronic components, particularly in transistors. It refers to the maximum voltage that can be applied between the emitter and base terminals of a transistor without causing damage to the device. Exceeding this voltage limit can lead to breakdown of the transistor and potential failure. VEBO is an important specification to consider when designing circuits to ensure the proper operation and reliability of the components. It is typically provided in the datasheet of the transistor and should be carefully observed to prevent any potential damage during operation.
6V - Max Junction Temperature (Tj)
Max Junction Temperature (Tj) refers to the maximum allowable temperature at the junction of a semiconductor device, such as a transistor or integrated circuit. It is a critical parameter that influences the performance, reliability, and lifespan of the component. Exceeding this temperature can lead to thermal runaway, breakdown, or permanent damage to the device. Proper thermal management is essential to ensure the junction temperature remains within safe operating limits during device operation.
150°C - Height1.1mm
- Length3.05mm
- Width1.4mm
- REACH SVHC
The parameter "REACH SVHC" in electronic components refers to the compliance with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation regarding Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC). SVHCs are substances that may have serious effects on human health or the environment, and their use is regulated under REACH to ensure their safe handling and minimize their impact.Manufacturers of electronic components need to declare if their products contain any SVHCs above a certain threshold concentration and provide information on the safe use of these substances. This information allows customers to make informed decisions about the potential risks associated with using the components and take appropriate measures to mitigate any hazards.Ensuring compliance with REACH SVHC requirements is essential for electronics manufacturers to meet regulatory standards, protect human health and the environment, and maintain transparency in their supply chain. It also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices in the electronics industry.
No SVHC - Radiation Hardening
Radiation hardening is the process of making electronic components and circuits resistant to damage or malfunction caused by high levels of ionizing radiation, especially for environments in outer space (especially beyond the low Earth orbit), around nuclear reactors and particle accelerators, or during nuclear accidents or nuclear warfare.
No - RoHS Status
RoHS means “Restriction of Certain Hazardous Substances” in the “Hazardous Substances Directive” in electrical and electronic equipment.
ROHS3 Compliant - Lead Free
Lead Free is a term used to describe electronic components that do not contain lead as part of their composition. Lead is a toxic material that can have harmful effects on human health and the environment, so the electronics industry has been moving towards lead-free components to reduce these risks. Lead-free components are typically made using alternative materials such as silver, copper, and tin. Manufacturers must comply with regulations such as the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive to ensure that their products are lead-free and environmentally friendly.
Lead Free
Parts with Similar Specs
- ImagePart NumberManufacturerMountPackage / CaseCollector Emitter Breakdown VoltageMax Collector CurrentTransition FrequencyCollector Emitter Saturation VoltagehFE MinMax Power DissipationView Compare
BC846A-7-F
Surface Mount
TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
65 V
100 mA
300 MHz
200 mV
200
300 mW
Surface Mount
TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
65 V
100 mA
300 MHz
200 mV
110
310 mW
Surface Mount
TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
65 V
100 mA
300 MHz
200 mV
200
300 mW
Surface Mount
TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
50 V
100 mA
30 MHz
700 mV
200
350 mW
Surface Mount
TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
65 V
100 mA
300 MHz
200 mV
110
310 mW
How to use BC846 Transistor

In the circuit above, Q1's base functions as a level-shifter from 3V-50V to 2.8V. R2 retains the Q1 in its off-state when the input signal is not asserted since the base of Q1 is driven by PNP open-collector outputs. Because speed isn't as critical as power consumption, the output pull-up can be quite large (22k).
This gives a collector current of:
IC(min)=2.8V/22kΩ=0.13mA
This leads to a small required base current, even when underestimating the current gain and providing a 30% error budget:
hFE(min)=100
VBE(sat)=0.75V
IB(min)=1.3*IC(min)/hFE(min)=0.0017mA
As noted above the input voltage at the base relative to the ground is in the range of Vin(min)=3V to Vin(max)=50.4V which imposes the following restrictions on RB:
R1(max)=[Vin(min)−VBE(sat)]/IB(min)=1.3MΩ
According to those calculations, R1=1MΩ and R2=10MΩ would be sufficient.
BC846 Layout

Layout
BC846 Alternatives
| Part Number | Description | Manufacturer |
| BC846A,235TRANSISTORS | BC846 series - 65 V, 100 mA NPN general-purpose transistors TO-236 3-Pin | NXP Semiconductors |
| BC846ATCTRANSISTORS | Small Signal Bipolar Transistor, 0.1A I(C), 65V V(BR)CEO, 1-Element, NPN, Silicon | Zetex / Diodes Inc |
BC846 Applications
• General-purpose Switching and AF Amplifier Applications
• Power Management
• Industrial
BC846 Package

Package
BC846 Manufacturer
Diodes Incorporated (Nasdaq: DIOD), a prominent global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality application-specific standard products in the discrete, logic, analog, and mixed-signal semiconductor markets is a Standard & Poor's Smallcap 600 and Russell 3000 Index business. Consumer electronics, computing, telecommunication, industrial, and automotive markets are all served by Diodes.
Diodes, rectifiers, transistors, MOSFETs, GPP bridges, GPP rectifiers, protection devices, function-specific arrays, single gate logic, amplifiers and comparators, Hall-effect and temperature sensors, power management devices such as AC-DC converters and controllers, DC-DC switching and linear voltage regulators, voltage references, and LED drivers, as well as special-function devices such as USB power switches, load switches, voltage supervisor For high-speed signals, Diodes additionally, offer timing, connection, switching, and signal integrity solutions.
Trend Analysis
Datasheet PDF
- Environmental Information :
- PCN Assembly/Origin :
- Datasheets :
- PCN Design/Specification :
AT28HC64B High-speed Parallel EEPROM: Pinout, Equivalent and Datasheet09 March 20221187
T2050H-6G Triac: Datasheet, Pinout, Features06 August 2021927
A Comprehensive Guide to LTC6802IG-2#3ZZPBF Battery Management PMIC06 March 2024144
LTM8061EV-4.2#PBF PMIC Battery Charger: A Comprehensive Technical Overview06 March 202472
PIC16F1787IMV Microcontroller: Technical Overview29 February 2024103
MAX17043/MAX17044 Li+ Battery: Pinout, Datasheet and Application14 July 20213307
AMD Xilinx Kintex-7 FPGA Series: Architecture Analysis and Design Guide14 January 202698
BMA150 Acceleration Sensor: Pinout, Features and Specification26 April 20211728
What is GND in a Circuit?18 December 202539783
Tunnel Diode: Definition, Features and Tunneling Process25 August 20209963
Is ON Semiconductor's Stock Overvalued? A Detailed Analysis28 September 20231938
Methodologies for Increasing Efficiency of Fuel Stack Technology for Energy Generation19 November 20242547
Trusted Vibration Sensors for Homeowners and Industry Professionals17 July 2025595
SEMI: Semiconductor Materials Market to Exceed US$70 Billion By 202327 September 20221196
Car Sensors: Classification and Application27 October 202512091
What is Power over Ethernet(PoE)?01 December 20212593
Diodes Incorporated
In Stock: 10
United States
China
Canada
Japan
Russia
Germany
United Kingdom
Singapore
Italy
Hong Kong(China)
Taiwan(China)
France
Korea
Mexico
Netherlands
Malaysia
Austria
Spain
Switzerland
Poland
Thailand
Vietnam
India
United Arab Emirates
Afghanistan
Åland Islands
Albania
Algeria
American Samoa
Andorra
Angola
Anguilla
Antigua & Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Aruba
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Benin
Bermuda
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
Bosnia & Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
British Indian Ocean Territory
British Virgin Islands
Brunei
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cabo Verde
Cambodia
Cameroon
Cayman Islands
Central African Republic
Chad
Chile
Christmas Island
Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Colombia
Comoros
Congo
Congo (DRC)
Cook Islands
Costa Rica
Côte d’Ivoire
Croatia
Cuba
Curaçao
Cyprus
Czechia
Denmark
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Estonia
Eswatini
Ethiopia
Falkland Islands
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
French Guiana
French Polynesia
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Ghana
Gibraltar
Greece
Greenland
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guam
Guatemala
Guernsey
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Hungary
Iceland
Indonesia
Iran
Iraq
Ireland
Isle of Man
Israel
Jamaica
Jersey
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Kosovo
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macao(China)
Madagascar
Malawi
Maldives
Mali
Malta
Marshall Islands
Martinique
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mayotte
Micronesia
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Montserrat
Morocco
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nauru
Nepal
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Niue
Norfolk Island
North Korea
North Macedonia
Northern Mariana Islands
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Palau
Palestinian Authority
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Pitcairn Islands
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Réunion
Romania
Rwanda
Samoa
San Marino
São Tomé & Príncipe
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Serbia
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Sint Maarten
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Sri Lanka
St Helena, Ascension, Tristan da Cunha
St. Barthélemy
St. Kitts & Nevis
St. Lucia
St. Martin
St. Pierre & Miquelon
St. Vincent & Grenadines
Sudan
Suriname
Svalbard & Jan Mayen
Sweden
Syria
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Timor-Leste
Togo
Tokelau
Tonga
Trinidad & Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Turks & Caicos Islands
Tuvalu
U.S. Outlying Islands
U.S. Virgin Islands
Uganda
Ukraine
Uruguay
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vatican City
Venezuela
Wallis & Futuna
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe
















