TIP120

Single Bipolar Transistors Overview

The TIP120 is an NPN silicon power Darlington transistor manufactured by STMicroelectronics using planar technology with a base island layout. It features a monolithic Darlington configuration housed in a TO-220AB package for through-hole mounting. Key electrical ratings include a collector-emitter voltage of 60 V, emitter-base voltage of 5 V, and collector-base voltage of 60 V. The device supports a maximum DC collector current of 5 A with a minimum DC current gain (hFE) of 1000. Maximum power dissipation is rated at 65 W, and the maximum operating temperature reaches +150 °C.

Single Bipolar Transistors Feature Summary

• Monolithic Darlington configuration providing exceptional high gain performance
• Low collector-emitter saturation voltage for efficient power handling
• Planar technology construction with base island layout

Single Bipolar Transistors Applications

• Power linear applications
• Switching applications
• Motor control circuits

Single Bipolar Transistors Procurement Notes

Verify the specific manufacturer marking on the component body to confirm STMicroelectronics origin, as multiple vendors produce this part number. Ensure the TO-220AB package matches your PCB footprint requirements. Check RoHS compliance documentation if environmental regulations apply to your assembly process. Confirm that the thermal management solution supports the specified 65 W dissipation rating under your operational conditions.

Single Bipolar Transistors Selection Notes

Select this component when high current gain is required to drive loads directly from low-current logic signals. The TO-220AB package facilitates heat sinking for high-power scenarios. Consider complementary PNP devices like the TIP125 for push-pull configurations. Ensure the circuit design accounts for the saturation voltage characteristics inherent to Darlington structures.

Single Bipolar Transistors Part Context

The TIP120 belongs to the TIP12x series of NPN silicon Darlington power transistors. This series is designed for robust power switching and linear regulation tasks. Complementary PNP variants are available within the same family to support full-bridge or push-pull amplifier designs. The components utilize standard industrial packaging for easy integration into general-purpose electronic systems.

Single Bipolar Transistors Replacement Considerations

Complementary PNP equivalents in the series include TIP125, TIP126, and TIP127. Other manufacturers may offer functionally similar NPN Darlington transistors, but verify pinout compatibility and absolute maximum ratings before substitution.