MOSFET Selection for Low-Power Signal and Switching Applications: PMV88ENER, NX7
In modern compact and portable electronics, selecting the right small-signal or low-power MOSFET is crucial for circuit performance, board space, and cost. This article takes two classic Nexperia MOSFETs—PMV88ENER (in SOT23) and NX7002BKWX (in SOT323)—as benchmarks, analyzing their design focus and typical applications, while evaluating their pin-to-pin domestic alternatives from VBsemi: VB1695 and VBK162K. By comparing their key parameters and performance orientations, we provide a clear selection guide for your next low-power design.
Comparative Analysis: PMV88ENER (N-channel, SOT23) vs. VB1695
Analysis of the Original Model (PMV88ENER) Core:
This is a 60V N-channel MOSFET from Nexperia in a compact SOT23 (TO-236AB) package. Its design core is to provide a reliable, general-purpose switching solution with balanced performance in a small footprint. Key advantages include: a drain current rating of 2.2A, an on-resistance of 117mΩ @10V gate drive, and robust 60V drain-source voltage capability. It uses Trench MOSFET technology for good efficiency in low-power applications.
Compatibility and Differences of the Domestic Alternative (VB1695):
VBsemi's VB1695 is a direct pin-to-pin compatible alternative in the same SOT23-3 package. The key differences are in electrical performance: VB1695 offers significantly lower on-resistance—75mΩ @10V and 86mΩ @4.5V—compared to the original's 117mΩ @10V. It also boasts a higher continuous drain current rating of 4A versus 2.2A, while maintaining the same 60V voltage rating and ±20V gate-source voltage.
Key Application Areas:
Original Model PMV88ENER: Ideal for general-purpose low-side switching, load switching, or signal level shifting in 12V to 48V systems where 2A current capability is sufficient. Common in consumer electronics, IoT modules, and power management circuits.
Alternative Model VB1695: Better suited for applications requiring lower conduction loss and higher current handling within the same tiny SOT23 footprint. It's a performance-enhanced drop-in replacement for circuits where improved efficiency or higher current margin is desired.
Comparative Analysis: NX7002BKWX (N-channel, SOT323) vs. VBK162K
Analysis of the Original Model (NX7002BKWX) Core:
This model represents the ultra-compact end of the spectrum, housed in a tiny SOT323 (SC-70) package. Its design pursuit is minimal space consumption for very low-power signal switching and isolation. Key parameters are a 60V drain-source voltage, a continuous drain current of 330mA, and an on-resistance of 2.8Ω @10V, 200mA. It's built for applications where current demands are minimal but voltage rating and size are critical.
Compatibility and Differences of the Domestic Alternative (VBK162K):
VBsemi's VBK162K is a direct pin-to-pin compatible alternative in the same SC70-3 (SOT323) package. It matches the original's 60V voltage rating, ±20V gate-source voltage, and 0.3A current rating. The on-resistance is specified as 2000mΩ (2Ω) @10V and 4000mΩ (4Ω) @4.5V, offering a comparable switching performance for this ultra-low-power class.
Key Application Areas:
Original Model NX7002BKWX: Perfect for space-constrained applications requiring signal switching, level translation, or very low-power load control in battery-operated devices, sensor interfaces, or communication modules.
Alternative Model VBK162K: Serves as a reliable domestic alternative for the same ultra-compact applications, providing equivalent voltage and current ratings in a directly replaceable package, ensuring supply chain flexibility.
Conclusion:
This comparison outlines two distinct replacement strategies:
1. For SOT23 packaged, general-purpose low-power N-channel switches, the domestic alternative VB1695 not only offers direct compatibility but also provides superior performance with lower on-resistance and higher current capability than the original PMV88ENER, making it an excellent upgrade choice.
2. For ultra-miniature SOT323 packaged, very low-current signal switches, the domestic alternative VBK162K provides a fully pin-to-pin compatible and parametrically equivalent replacement for the NX7002BKWX, ensuring design continuity in the most space-sensitive applications.
The core takeaway is that domestic alternatives like VB1695 and VBK162K offer viable, performance-competitive, and supply-chain-resilient solutions. VB1695 even presents a performance advantage for SOT23 applications. The choice depends on precisely matching the package size, current requirement, and efficiency target of your specific circuit.