STMicroelectronics 2N5415

Overview

2N5415 from STMicroelectronics is a high-voltage silicon epitaxial planar PNP bipolar junction transistor in TO-39 metal package, rated for V_CBO = −200 V, V_CEO = −200 V, I_C = −1 A, P_tot = 10 W at T_c ≤ 25 °C, and designed for high-voltage low-current inverter driver, switching regulator, and series regulator applications in line-operated industrial and consumer equipment.

For engineers reviewing the 2N5415 datasheet, 2N5415 pinout, 2N5415 application, or 2N5415 equivalent, key selection criteria include verified high-voltage blocking (−200 V V_CEO), pulsed sustaining voltage (V_CE(sus) = −200 V), DC current gain (h_FE = 30–150), saturation voltage (V_CE(sat) = −2.5 V), and thermal resistance (R_thj-case = 17.5 °C/W).

Technical Context

This PNP transistor employs an epitaxial planar structure optimized for stable high-voltage operation with low leakage: ICBO ≤ −50 µA at V_CB = −175 V, ICEO ≤ −50 µA at V_CE = −150 V, and IEBO ≤ −20 µA at V_EB = −4 V. Its rugged TO-39 metal case enables direct heatsinking and supports pulsed operation up to 300 µs duty cycle 1.5%.

It delivers h_FE ≥ 30 at I_C = −50 mA / V_CE = −10 V, f_T = 15 MHz at I_C = −10 mA / V_CE = −10 V, and C_CBO = 25 pF at V_CB = −10 V / f = 1 MHz - confirming suitability for medium-speed switching and linear regulation where voltage headroom and thermal robustness are critical.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The 2N5415 is housed in a hermetically sealed JEDEC TO-39 metal can package with center-tab mounting and axial lead configuration. The case serves as the collector terminal, enabling direct thermal coupling to heatsinks.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP high-voltage switching and regulation applications.

Compared with MJE15032 and 2N6517, the 2N5415 offers optimal balance of voltage rating, current capability, and thermal performance in a compact, heatsink-compatible TO-39 metal can - making it uniquely suited for space-constrained, line-powered industrial regulators requiring field-replaceable mechanical robustness.

Availability

2N5415 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for line-operated AC/DC regulators, high-voltage inverter drivers, and industrial switching power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and traceable sourcing from STMicroelectronics.

Supply support for 2N5415 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, designing and manufacturing analog, power, microcontroller, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The 2N5415 belongs to ST's legacy high-voltage discrete transistor product line, developed specifically for ruggedized line-operated power conversion systems where reliability under sustained high-voltage stress is essential.

FAQ

Is the 2N5415 pin-compatible with the 2N5416?

No. While both share identical TO-39 packaging and pinout (case = collector, lead 1 = emitter, lead 2 = base), the 2N5416 has higher voltage ratings (V_CBO = −350 V, V_CEO = −300 V) and different h_FE range (30–120). Substitution requires verification of voltage margin and gain requirements in the target circuit.

Can the 2N5415 be used in avalanche mode?

No. The 2N5415 is not characterized or rated for controlled avalanche operation. Its absolute maximum ratings and electrical characteristics assume normal forward-active or saturation operation. Avalanche use may cause irreversible junction damage due to uncontrolled localized heating.

What is the recommended heatsink interface for the TO-39 case?

A mica washer with silicone grease or thermally conductive adhesive is recommended to electrically isolate the collector (case) while maintaining low thermal resistance. Mounting torque must not exceed 5 in·lb to avoid case deformation or seal compromise, per STMicroelectronics mechanical guidelines for TO-39 packages.

Does the 2N5415 have built-in ESD protection?

No. The 2N5415 is a bare-die bipolar transistor without integrated ESD protection structures. Handling requires standard static-sensitive device precautions (grounded workstation, wrist strap, anti-static packaging), and PCB layout should include external transient suppression if exposed to human contact or cable interfaces.