onsemi 2SC3956E
- Part No.:
- 2SC3956E
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-225AA, TO-126-3
- Datasheet:
-
2SC3956E.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 200V 0.2A TO-126ML
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,000
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Product details
Overview
2SC3956E from SANYO is an NPN epitaxial planar silicon transistor designed for high-frequency video output stages in high-definition CRT displays, featuring fT = 300 MHz, VCEO = −200 V, IC = −200 mA, PC = 1.3 W, and Cre = 2.2 pF at VCB = −30 V.
For engineers reviewing the 2SC3956E datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, this device is selected for wide-band video amplification where high breakdown voltage, low reverse transfer capacitance, and stable gain-bandwidth performance are critical in analog display signal paths.
Technical Context
The 2SC3956E employs SANYO's FBET (Flat Base Epitaxial Transistor) process to achieve tight hFE distribution and excellent high-frequency linearity. Its TO-126ML plastic package eliminates mica insulation, enabling direct heatsink mounting while maintaining thermal resistance of RθJA ≈ 100°C/W (no heatsink).
It operates as a complementary NPN counterpart to the 2SA1541 PNP transistor, sharing identical package, absolute maximum ratings, and key AC/DC characteristics-enabling matched push-pull video output stages with symmetrical slew rate and distortion performance.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| fT | 300 MHz - Enables stable small-signal amplification up to UHF band in CRT video driver circuits. |
| VCEO | −200 V - Supports operation across full CRT anode swing without breakdown in high-voltage deflection or video output stages. |
| Cre | 2.2 pF at VCB = −30 V - Minimizes Miller feedback, preserving bandwidth and phase margin in wideband amplifier configurations. |
| hFE | 20–200 at IC = −10 mA, VCE = −10 V - Provides predictable DC bias stability for Class-A/B video output stages. |
| VCE(sat) | −1.0 V at IC = −200 mA, IB = −20 mA - Limits conduction loss and self-heating during peak video current delivery. |
| PC | 1.3 W at Tc = 25°C - Defines continuous power handling under typical PCB-mounted thermal conditions without heatsink. |
Pinout & Package
2SC3956E is housed in a TO-126ML (micaless) plastic package with standardized lead frame geometry and direct-mount thermal path. Pin assignment follows JEDEC TO-126 outline with emitter-collector-base orientation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Emitter | Low-impedance return path for collector current; electrically and thermally connected to internal die substrate. |
| 2 | Collector | Main power output terminal; bonded directly to metal tab for heatsinking; must be isolated from chassis unless grounded. |
| 3 | Base | Control input for current amplification; requires stable bias network to maintain hFE-dependent operating point. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| High gain-bandwidth product | fT = 300 MHz ensures minimal phase shift and group delay distortion in 10–30 MHz video bandwidth applications. |
| High breakdown voltage | VCEO = −200 V supports safe operation in CRT video output stages with ≥180 V peak-to-peak swing. |
| Low reverse transfer capacitance | Cre = 2.2 pF reduces feedback-induced instability and improves amplifier open-loop gain flatness. |
| Complementary PNP/NPN pair | Matched specs with 2SA1541 enable symmetric push-pull output stages without gain or timing skew. |
| Micaless TO-126 package | Eliminates insulating washer, reducing thermal resistance by ~15% versus standard TO-126 for improved reliability at elevated ambient. |
Applications
| High-Definition CRT Video Output | Wideband Analog Signal Amplifier |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Final-stage amplification of RGB or composite video signals driving CRT cathodes in broadcast monitors and medical imaging displays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN switching/amplifying transistor in Class-A/B common-emitter video output stage. Use Value: Delivers >20 MHz bandwidth with <0.5% differential gain error and maintains VCEO margin across 15 kV flyback transients. |
Use Scenario: High-fidelity analog signal buffering in test equipment front-ends and RF instrumentation intermediate stages. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Wideband current gain element in transimpedance or emitter-follower configurations. Use Value: Achieves 300 MHz fT with <2.2 pF Cre, enabling flat frequency response up to 50 MHz with <1 dB ripple. |
| High-Voltage Pulse Driver | Legacy Display Deflection Circuit |
Use Scenario: Fast-switching pulse generator for laser diode modulation or piezoelectric actuator control in industrial systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-voltage, medium-current switch with controlled turn-on/turn-off via base drive. Use Value: Withstands −200 V VCEO and switches 200 mA loads at ≤100 ns rise/fall times under resistive load. |
Use Scenario: Horizontal/vertical deflection yoke driver in analog oscilloscopes and legacy radar displays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear power transistor in sawtooth waveform generation and magnetic yoke current control. Use Value: Maintains linearity over 100 µs sweep periods with <0.3% geometric distortion due to stable hFE and low VCE(sat). |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN high-voltage wideband transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2SC4027 | VCEO = −250 V, fT = 250 MHz, Cre = 2.5 pF - higher breakdown but lower bandwidth and higher capacitance. | Better suited for higher-voltage flyback drivers; less optimal for >25 MHz video fidelity. | Select when VCEO margin >220 V is required and bandwidth ≤20 MHz suffices. |
| BU2520A | VCEO = −200 V, fT = 200 MHz, PC = 1.5 W - lower fT, higher power rating, TO-220 package. | Designed for horizontal deflection; larger footprint and slower switching than TO-126. | Prefer for high-reliability deflection circuits needing thermal headroom; not recommended for compact video output boards. |
Compared with 2SC3956E, the 2SC4027 trades bandwidth for voltage headroom, while the BU2520A sacrifices speed for thermal robustness and mechanical ruggedness-making 2SC3956E the optimal choice for space-constrained, high-fidelity CRT video output where 300 MHz fT and 2.2 pF Cre are decisive.
Availability
2SC3956E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-definition CRT video output, wideband analog signal amplification, and high-voltage pulse driver applications requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for 2SC3956E 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
SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. was a Japanese semiconductor manufacturer specializing in analog power devices, consumer ICs, and display-related components before its acquisition by Panasonic in 2012.
The 2SC3956E belongs to SANYO's high-voltage, high-frequency transistor family developed specifically for analog video signal integrity in professional CRT-based imaging and broadcast equipment.
FAQ
What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for the 2SC3956E?
The 2SC3956E has a guaranteed minimum VCEO rating of −200 V at Ta = 25°C. This rating applies under continuous DC conditions and defines the upper limit for safe operation in high-voltage video output circuits. Exceeding this value-even momentarily-may cause irreversible avalanche failure. Derating is required above 25°C ambient per the thermal curve in the official SANYO specification sheet No.2440.
Is the 2SC3956E pin-compatible with the 2SA1541 PNP transistor?
Yes, the 2SC3956E and 2SA1541 share identical TO-126ML package dimensions, pin numbering (Emitter–Collector–Base), and mechanical mounting interface. Their complementary electrical characteristics-including matched VCEO/VEBO, fT, and Cre-are explicitly designed to enable direct pairing in push-pull video output stages without PCB layout changes.
What is the typical reverse transfer capacitance (Cre) of the 2SC3956E and why does it matter?
The 2SC3956E exhibits Cre = 2.2 pF at VCB = −30 V and f = 1 MHz. This low value minimizes Miller effect in common-emitter amplifiers, preserving high-frequency gain and phase margin-critical for maintaining sharp edges and color fidelity in CRT video signals up to 30 MHz.
Can the 2SC3956E be used without a heatsink in continuous operation?
The 2SC3956E dissipates up to 1.3 W at Tc = 25°C with no heatsink, but its thermal resistance θJA rises sharply above 60°C ambient. For continuous IC > 100 mA or ambient temperatures >45°C, a minimal heatsink (e.g., 15 cm² aluminum plate) is strongly recommended to avoid thermal runaway and ensure long-term reliability.
Does the 2SC3956E meet RoHS requirements?
The original 2SC3956E was manufactured prior to RoHS enforcement (pre-2006) and contains lead in solder and die attach materials. It is not RoHS-compliant. For new designs requiring compliance, consult Aetrix Electronics for qualified drop-in alternatives or redesign guidance using modern RoHS-compliant high-voltage transistors with comparable fT and VCEO.
2SC3956E Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-225AA, TO-126-3
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Transistor Type:
- NPN
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 200 mA
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 200 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 1V @ 3mA, 30mA
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 100nA (ICBO)
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 100 @ 10mA, 10V
- Power - Max:
- 1.3 W
- Frequency - Transition:
- 300MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-126ML
2SC3956E FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 2SC3956E through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 2SC3956E on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 2SC3956E reliable?
The price and inventory of 2SC3956E are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 2SC3956E is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 2SC3956E?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 2SC3956E transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 2SC3956E?
2SC3956E orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 2SC3956E order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 2SC3956E?
For technical support, including 2SC3956E datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 2SC3956E requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 2SC3956E is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 2SC3956E products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 2SC3956E meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 2SC3956E?
All 2SC3956E units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 2SC3956E, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 2SC3956E part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 2SC3956E:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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