2N5884 - Silicon PNP Power Transistor

Overview

The 2N5884 is a silicon PNP power transistor designed for high-power amplification and switching applications. It is part of a complementary pair with the 2N5886 (NPN counterpart), offering symmetrical performance characteristics for push-pull configurations. This transistor is characterized by its high current handling capability, robust construction, and reliable performance in demanding environments.

Manufactured using epitaxial-base technology, the 2N5884 provides excellent thermal stability and high gain at elevated currents. The device is particularly suitable for applications requiring substantial power dissipation and current amplification in the 10-30A range.

Features

• High current capability: 30A continuous collector current
• Powerful 200W power dissipation (at proper heatsinking)
• Complementary to 2N5886 NPN transistor
• Low collector-emitter saturation voltage
• Excellent safe operating area characteristics
• High current gain bandwidth product
• Epoxy-encapsulated TO-3 package for robust mechanical protection
• Operating junction temperature range: -65°C to +200°C

Applications

The 2N5884 finds use in a wide variety of power electronics applications, including:

• Linear power amplifiers
• DC motor control circuits
• Power supply regulators
• Audio power amplifiers (complementary output stages)
• Industrial control systems
• High-current switching applications
• Inverter and converter circuits
• Electronic load switching

Electrical Characteristics

(All characteristics measured at T_j = 25°C unless otherwise specified)

Absolute Maximum Ratings

• Collector-Emitter Voltage (V_CEO): 60V
• Collector-Base Voltage (V_CBO): 100V
• Emitter-Base Voltage (V_EBO): 5V
• Collector Current (I_C): 30A continuous
• Base Current (I_B): 10A
• Total Power Dissipation (P_tot): 200W @ T_case ≤ 25°C
• Operating and Storage Junction Temperature Range: -65°C to +200°C

Thermal Characteristics

• Thermal Resistance, Junction to Case (R_θJC): 0.7°C/W
• Thermal Resistance, Junction to Ambient (R_θJA): 40°C/W

DC Current Gain

• h_FE (I_C = 10A, V_CE = 4V): 20-70
• h_FE (I_C = 20A, V_CE = 4V): 15-60

Saturation Characteristics

• Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage (V_CE(sat)):
  • 1.0V max @ I_C = 10A, I_B = 1A
  • 1.5V max @ I_C = 20A, I_B = 2A
• Base-Emitter Saturation Voltage (V_BE(sat)):
  • 1.8V max @ I_C = 10A, I_B = 1A

Package Information

The 2N5884 is available in a robust TO-3 metal can package, offering excellent thermal performance and mechanical durability. The package features:

• Package Type: TO-3 (JEDEC)
• Mounting Style: Through-hole
• Terminal Material: Electroplated steel
• Isolation: Electrically isolated case (except collector)
• Weight: Approximately 20 grams
• Dimensions: 22.86mm x 27.94mm (excluding leads)
• Lead Diameter: 1.3mm (typical)

Package Dimensions (mm)

• Overall Height: 27.94 max
• Base Diameter: 22.86 nominal
• Lead Length: 19.05 min
• Mounting Hole Diameter: 4.06 nominal

Performance Characteristics

Safe Operating Area

The 2N5884 features an excellent safe operating area (SOA) due to its robust construction and thermal characteristics. The SOA is limited by:

• Maximum collector current (30A)
• Maximum collector-emitter voltage (60V)
• Maximum power dissipation (200W)
• Secondary breakdown limitations

Frequency Response

While primarily designed for power applications, the 2N5884 offers reasonable frequency response:

• Transition Frequency (f_T): 2MHz typical @ I_C = 5A, V_CE = 10V
• Capacitance (C_obo): 300pF typical @ V_CB = 10V, f = 1MHz

Mounting Considerations

Proper mounting is crucial for achieving maximum performance from the 2N5884:

• Use appropriate heatsink with thermal compound
• Recommended torque for mounting nuts: 0.8-1.2 Nm
• Ensure clean, flat mounting surface
• Maintain proper electrical isolation if required
• Consider using insulating washers and bushes when needed

Reliability Data

The 2N5884 demonstrates excellent reliability when operated within specified limits:

• Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): >1,000,000 hours
• ESD Rating: 2kV (Human Body Model)
• Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL): Not applicable (hermetic metal package)

Ordering Information

The device is available in several packaging options:

• Single unit bulk packaging
• 25-unit boxes
• 100-unit bulk packs

Standard marking includes:

• Part number (2N5884)
• Date code
• Manufacturer logo