Dual NPN/PNP transistors in compact SC-74 package
Manufacturer： infineon
# BC846UPN Product Series Introduction
## 1. Overview
The BC846UPN product series is a remarkable line of semiconductor devices that has been engineered to meet the diverse and demanding requirements of modern electronic circuits. These components are part of the bipolar junction transistor (BJT) family, specifically designed as NPN transistors. With their high - performance characteristics and reliable operation, they are widely used in a variety of applications across different industries.
## 2. Key Features
### 2.1 Electrical Characteristics
- **Low Collector - Emitter Saturation Voltage (VCE(sat))**: The BC846UPN transistors typically exhibit a very low VCE(sat) value. This feature is crucial as it reduces power dissipation in the transistor when it is in the saturated state. For example, in switching applications, a low VCE(sat) means less energy is wasted as heat, leading to higher overall efficiency of the circuit.
- **High DC Current Gain (hFE)**: These transistors offer a high and stable DC current gain. The hFE value is carefully controlled during the manufacturing process, ensuring consistent performance across different units. A high hFE allows for efficient signal amplification, making the BC846UPN suitable for use in small - signal amplifier circuits where a large output signal is required from a small input signal.
- **Low Noise**: They are designed to generate minimal electrical noise. In applications such as audio amplifiers or sensitive sensor circuits, low noise is essential to ensure that the output signal is clean and free from unwanted interference. The low - noise characteristics of the BC846UPN help in maintaining the integrity of the input signal during amplification.
### 2.2 Physical Characteristics
- **Small Package Size**: The BC846UPN transistors come in a compact package. This small form factor is highly advantageous in modern electronic devices where space is at a premium. It allows for the design of more densely packed circuit boards, enabling the development of smaller and more portable electronic products.
- **High Thermal Stability**: The transistors are built to withstand a wide range of operating temperatures. They have excellent thermal stability, which means their electrical characteristics remain relatively constant even when the temperature changes. This is important in applications where the device may be exposed to varying environmental conditions, such as automotive electronics or industrial control systems.
## 3. Applications
### 3.1 Amplifier Circuits
- **Audio Amplifiers**: Due to their high hFE and low noise characteristics, the BC846UPN transistors are well - suited for use in audio amplifier circuits. They can amplify weak audio signals from sources such as microphones or audio players to a level that can drive speakers. The low distortion and high - fidelity performance of these transistors ensure that the audio output is of high quality.
- **RF Amplifiers**: In radio frequency (RF) applications, the BC846UPN can be used to amplify RF signals. Their ability to operate at high frequencies and provide stable gain makes them a viable choice for RF front - end circuits in wireless communication devices, such as mobile phones and Wi - Fi routers.
### 3.2 Switching Circuits
- **Power Switching**: The low VCE(sat) and fast switching speed of the BC846UPN make it suitable for power switching applications. It can be used to control the flow of power to different components in a circuit, such as turning on or off a load. For example, in a battery - powered device, these transistors can be used to manage the power supply to different subsystems, improving the overall power efficiency of the device.
- **Logic Level Switching**: In digital circuits, the BC846UPN can be used as a logic level switch. It can convert a low - level digital signal into a higher - level signal or vice versa,