BC868-25,115

Overview

The BC868-25,115 is an NPN medium power transistor from the Nexperia BC868 series, housed in a SOT89 (SC-62) surface-mount package. It features a collector-emitter voltage of 20 V and a continuous collector current of 2 A, with a peak pulse current capability of 3 A. The device offers two DC current gain selections; the -25 variant specifies a minimum hFE of 160 at IC = 500 mA and VCE = 1 V. Total power dissipation reaches up to 1.35 W on a PCB with a 6 cm² collector pad. Transition frequency is typically 170 MHz.

Feature Summary

• High collector current capability for both continuous and pulsed operation
• Two distinct current gain selections available within the series
• High power dissipation capability suitable for thermal management

Applications

• Linear voltage regulators
• MOSFET drivers
• Low-side switches
• Power management circuits
• Amplifiers
• Battery-driven devices

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix matches the required current gain bin. Confirm the package type corresponds to the SOT89 footprint requirements for your PCB layout. Ensure the application does not require automotive qualification, as this product is non-automotive qualified. Check the most recent datasheet revision for any updates to limiting values or thermal characteristics before finalizing design specifications.

Selection Notes

Select the BC868-25 when a higher minimum DC current gain is required compared to the standard BC868 variant. Evaluate the thermal resistance requirements based on the specific PCB copper area available for the collector pad. Consider the 20 V collector-emitter voltage limit for low-voltage switching applications. Verify that the 2 A continuous current rating meets the load requirements without exceeding power dissipation limits.

Part Context

This component belongs to the Nexperia BC868 series of NPN medium power transistors. The series includes variants like the BC868 and BC868-25, differentiated primarily by their DC current gain ranges. All variants share the same SOT89 plastic package and electrical voltage/current ratings, providing flexibility in gain selection for amplifier and switching designs.

Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes include other parts from the BC868 family such as the BC868. Cross-referencing with similar SOT89 NPN transistors requires verifying matching voltage, current, and gain specifications.