2N6388 - Power Darlington Transistor

Overview

The 2N6388 is a high-power NPN Darlington transistor designed for general-purpose amplifier and low-speed switching applications. It is part of a series that includes the 2N6387 and 2N6389, with the 2N6388 offering a balance of current handling and voltage capabilities. This device is characterized by its high current gain, rugged construction, and ability to handle significant power dissipation, making it suitable for demanding industrial and consumer applications.

Constructed using epitaxial-base technology, the 2N6388 provides excellent performance in linear and switching circuits. The Darlington configuration ensures high current gain (h_FE), reducing the drive requirements for control circuits. The device is housed in a robust TO-220 package, offering good thermal characteristics and ease of mounting.

Features

• High Current Capability: Collector current (I_C) rating of 8A continuous
• High Voltage Rating: Collector-emitter voltage (V_CEO) of 80V
• Darlington Configuration: Provides very high DC current gain (h_FE typically 1000 at 4A)
• Power Dissipation: 75W maximum power dissipation at 25°C case temperature
• Built-in Base-Emitter Resistors: Improves thermal stability and turn-off characteristics
• TO-220 Package: Industry-standard package with good thermal performance
• Pb-Free Option Available: Compliant with RoHS requirements

Applications

The 2N6388 finds use in a wide variety of power control and amplification applications, including:

• Linear Power Amplifiers: Audio amplifiers and power supply regulation circuits
• Motor Control: DC motor drivers and servo amplifiers
• Power Switching: Relay drivers, solenoid controls, and lamp drivers
• Power Supplies: Series pass elements in linear regulators
• Industrial Controls: Process control systems and automation equipment
• Automotive Systems: Electronic ignition systems and power window controls

The device is particularly well-suited for applications requiring high current gain with minimal drive requirements, or where space constraints favor a single device solution over multiple discrete transistors.

Electrical Characteristics

All specifications are at T_A = 25°C unless otherwise noted.

Absolute Maximum Ratings

• Collector-Emitter Voltage (V_CEO): 80V
• Collector-Base Voltage (V_CBO): 80V
• Emitter-Base Voltage (V_EBO): 5V
• Collector Current (I_C): 8A continuous, 16A peak
• Base Current (I_B): 4A
• Total Power Dissipation (P_D): 75W at T_C ≤ 25°C
• Operating and Storage Junction Temperature Range: -65°C to +150°C

Thermal Characteristics

• Thermal Resistance, Junction-to-Case (R_θJC): 1.67°C/W
• Thermal Resistance, Junction-to-Ambient (R_θJA): 62.5°C/W

On Characteristics

• DC Current Gain (h_FE):
  • 1000 (typical) at I_C = 4A, V_CE = 4V
  • 500 (minimum) at I_C = 8A, V_CE = 4V
• Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage (V_CE(sat)):
  • 1.5V (maximum) at I_C = 4A, I_B = 4mA
  • 2.5V (maximum) at I_C = 8A, I_B = 8mA

Switching Characteristics

• Turn-On Time (t_on): 1.0μs (typical)
• Turn-Off Time (t_off): 4.0μs (typical)
• Storage Time (t_s): 2.0μs (typical)

Package Information

The 2N6388 is available in a TO-220AB package with the following mechanical characteristics:

• Package Type: TO-220AB (JEDEC)
• Mounting: Through-hole, vertical mounting
• Terminal Material: Copper alloy
• Terminal Finish: Matte tin (Pb-free option available)
• Weight: Approximately 2.0 grams
• Dimensions:
  • Total Height: 16.0mm (max)
  • Lead Length: 12.7mm (nominal)
  • Lead Spacing: 2.54mm (between centers)

Package Outline Drawing

The TO-220AB package features a metal tab that serves as both a mechanical mounting point and thermal path. The tab is electrically connected to the collector terminal. Proper insulation should be used when mounting to heatsinks to prevent electrical shorts.

Handling and Mounting Considerations

• Always observe proper ESD precautions when handling the device
• Use appropriate heatsinking for applications dissipating more than 1W
• Apply thermal compound between the package and heatsink for optimal thermal transfer
• Torque mounting screws to 6-8 in-lbs (0.7-0.9 Nm) for proper mechanical and thermal contact
• Do not bend leads closer than 3mm from the package body

Reliability and Qualification

The 2N6388 is manufactured under strict quality control procedures and meets or exceeds the following reliability standards:

• MIL-STD-750 test methods
• JEDEC JESD22 series of qualification tests
• 100% electrical testing at elevated temperature
• High temperature reverse bias (HTRB) testing

Ordering Information

The device is available in several packaging options:

• 2N6388: Standard version in bulk packaging (50 pieces per tube)
• 2N6388G: Pb-free version in bulk packaging
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