BAS116 Diode: Complete Technical Guide and Applications

The BAS116 from Diodes Incorporated remains one of the most versatile general-purpose diodes despite being discontinued at Digi-Key. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about this reliable semiconductor component, including its detailed specifications, performance characteristics, and practical applications in modern electronics.

In-Depth Technical Specifications

1. Manufacturer and Product Details

• Manufacturer Part Number: BAS116
• Manufacturer: Diodes Incorporated
• Category: Discrete Semiconductor Products > Diodes - Rectifiers - Single
• Package Type: SOT-23-3 (TO-236-3)
• Mounting Style: Surface Mount
• RoHS Compliance: Yes

2. Detailed Electrical Characteristics

Voltage Specifications

• Peak Reverse Voltage: 85V
• Breakdown Voltage: Typically 100V
• Forward Voltage Drop: 1.25V @ 150mA

Current Ratings

• Average Rectified Output Current: 215mA
• Peak Forward Surge Current: 2A (8.3ms single half-sine-wave)
• Reverse Leakage Current: 5nA @ 75V

Switching Characteristics

• Reverse Recovery Time: 3 s
• Junction Capacitance: 2pF @ 0V, 1MHz

3. Thermal Properties

• Operating Junction Temperature Range: -65 C to +150 C
• Storage Temperature Range: -65 C to +150 C
• Thermal Resistance: 357 C/W (Junction to Ambient)

Package Dimensions and Mechanical Data

The BAS116 comes in the popular SOT-23-3 surface mount package with the following dimensions:

• Package Height: 1.1mm (max)
• Package Width: 1.25mm (max)
• Package Length: 2.9mm (max)
• Lead Pitch: 0.95mm

Comprehensive Applications Guide

1. Power Supply Circuits

The BAS116 is ideal for:

• Low-voltage DC power supply rectification
• Secondary side rectification in switch-mode power supplies
• Battery charging circuits

2. Signal Processing

• Signal demodulation in RF circuits
• Peak detection circuits
• Signal clamping applications

3. Protection Circuits

• Reverse polarity protection
• ESD protection for sensitive components
• Voltage spike suppression

4. Switching Applications

• Low-speed switching (below 100kHz)
• Logic level conversion
• Digital signal isolation

Design Considerations

1. Thermal Management

While the BAS116 has good thermal characteristics for its size, designers should:

• Use adequate copper area for heat dissipation
• Avoid continuous operation at maximum current ratings
• Consider parallel diodes for higher current applications

2. PCB Layout Recommendations

• Keep traces short for high-frequency applications
• Use ground planes for better thermal performance
• Maintain proper clearance for high-voltage applications

Comparison with Similar Diodes

Parameter	BAS116	1N4148	BAT54
Package	SOT-23-3	DO-35	SOT-23
Vr (V)	85	75	30
Io (mA)	215	200	200
trr (ns)	3000	4	50

Why Engineers Still Choose BAS116

Despite newer alternatives, the BAS116 remains popular because:

• Proven Reliability: Decades of field-tested performance
• Cost-Effective: Excellent price-to-performance ratio
• Compact Size: Ideal for space-constrained designs
• Wide Availability: Still stocked by major distributors

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the BAS116 suitable for high-frequency applications?

While the BAS116 can work at moderate frequencies, its 3 s recovery time makes it less ideal for high-speed switching above 100kHz compared to fast recovery diodes.

2. Can I use BAS116 for 5V logic circuits?

Yes, the BAS116 works well for 5V logic applications, offering sufficient voltage margin with its 85V rating and low forward voltage drop.

3. What are the recommended alternatives to BAS116?

For similar applications, consider: BAV70, 1N4148WS, or BAT54S, depending on your specific requirements for speed, current, or package.

Conclusion

The BAS116 diode continues to be a valuable component in electronics design, offering reliable performance in a compact SOT-23-3 package. Its combination of 85V reverse voltage rating, 215mA current capability, and standard recovery characteristics make it particularly useful for general-purpose rectification, signal processing, and protection circuits. While newer diodes may offer faster switching speeds or lower forward voltages, the BAS116's proven track record, wide availability, and cost-effectiveness ensure it remains relevant in many designs.

For engineers and hobbyists looking for a dependable through-hole or surface mount diode for low to medium frequency applications, the BAS116 from Diodes Incorporated deserves serious consideration. Its specifications strike an excellent balance between performance and practicality, making it a versatile choice for countless electronic applications.