The maximum operating temperature range for the BC846BS is -55°C to 150°C, but the recommended operating temperature range is -40°C to 125°C for optimal performance and reliability.
To ensure proper biasing for switching applications, make sure to provide a sufficient base current to drive the transistor into saturation. A general rule of thumb is to provide a base current of at least 1/10th of the collector current. Additionally, ensure the base-emitter voltage is within the recommended range of 0.65V to 0.85V.
The maximum collector-emitter voltage that the BC846BS can withstand is 65V. Exceeding this voltage may result in transistor damage or failure.
While the BC846BS can be used for switching applications, it is not suitable for high-frequency applications due to its relatively high transition frequency (ft) of 100 MHz. For high-frequency applications, consider using a transistor with a higher transition frequency, such as the BC817 or BC807.
To prevent thermal runaway, ensure proper heat sinking and thermal management. Use a heat sink with a sufficient thermal resistance to keep the transistor junction temperature below the maximum rating of 150°C. Additionally, consider using a thermal protection circuit or a current limiting resistor to prevent excessive current flow.
BC846BS datasheet
by NXP Semiconductors
