BCP68/ZLF Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The BCP68/ZLF is an NPN bipolar junction transistor manufactured by Nexperia USA Inc., designed for surface mount applications in the SOT-223 package. This device is rated for 20V collector-emitter breakdown voltage with a maximum collector current of 2A and operates at frequencies up to 170MHz. The BCP68/ZLF is classified as obsolete, which necessitates identification of active equivalent parts for new designs and ongoing production requirements. Substitute parts must maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility while meeting current availability and compliance standards.

Substiute Parts

BCP68/ZLF

Nexperia USA Inc.In Stock: 850BCP68/ZLF Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BCP68,115

NXP USA Inc.In Stock: 4375BCP68,115 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the BCP68/ZLF is determined by the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Compatibility Criteria:

• Transistor type must be NPN
• Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown rating must be ≥20V
• Frequency - Transition must be ≥170MHz
• Operating temperature rating must be ≥150°C
• Package / Case must be SOT-223 (TO-261-4, TO-261AA)
• Mounting type must be Surface Mount

Compliance Criteria:

• RoHS3 Compliant status
• Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (Unlimited)

The BCP68,115 meets all electrical and mechanical compatibility requirements. While the maximum collector current (Ic) is reduced from 2A to 1A and maximum power dissipation is increased from 1.35W to 1.4W, these parameters remain within the same functional class and do not preclude substitution in applications where the lower current rating is acceptable.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The BCP68,115 is an active substitute for the obsolete BCP68/ZLF. Both parts are manufactured by Nexperia (NXP USA Inc.) and share identical voltage ratings, frequency characteristics, and thermal operating limits. Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and MSL Level 1 classification, ensuring compatibility with modern manufacturing and environmental standards.

The primary design consideration for substitution is the reduction in maximum collector current from 2A to 1A. Applications requiring the full 2A capability of the BCP68/ZLF must evaluate whether the BCP68,115's 1A maximum rating is sufficient for the intended circuit function. The identical SOT-223 package and surface mount configuration ensure mechanical and thermal compatibility without PCB redesign.

The BCP68,115 is recommended for new designs and production transitions from the obsolete BCP68/ZLF, provided that circuit requirements do not exceed the 1A collector current specification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the BCP68,115 be used as a direct replacement for the BCP68/ZLF in all applications?

A: The BCP68,115 is mechanically and electrically compatible with the BCP68/ZLF in the SOT-223 package. However, the maximum collector current is reduced from 2A to 1A. Applications must be evaluated to confirm that circuit requirements do not exceed 1A collector current. If the circuit requires the full 2A capability, the BCP68,115 is not suitable.

Q: Are there any package differences between the BCP68/ZLF and BCP68,115?

A: Both parts use the SOT-223 package (TO-261-4, TO-261AA designation). No PCB layout modifications are required for substitution.

Q: What is the significance of the product status difference between these parts?

A: The BCP68/ZLF is classified as obsolete, indicating that Nexperia USA Inc. no longer manufactures or supports this part. The BCP68,115 is active and currently in production, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.

Q: Do both parts meet the same compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both the BCP68/ZLF and BCP68,115 are ROHS3 compliant and carry MSL Level 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity classification. Both parts are suitable for automotive applications with AEC-Q101 qualification (BCP68/ZLF) or equivalent standards.

Q: What is the difference in DC current gain between these parts?

A: The BCP68/ZLF has a minimum DC current gain (hFE) of 160 @ 500mA, 1V, while the BCP68,115 has a minimum of 85 @ 500mA, 1V. This difference reflects the lower current rating of the substitute part. Circuit designs must account for this variation in gain characteristics.

Q: Are there any thermal or frequency limitations with the BCP68,115?

A: No. Both parts operate at identical maximum junction temperatures (150°C) and transition frequencies (170MHz). Thermal and frequency performance are equivalent.