onsemi 2SC5242OTU
- Part No.:
- 2SC5242OTU
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-3P-3, SC-65-3
- Datasheet:
-
2SC5242OTU.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 250V 17A TO-3P
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:980
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Product details
Overview
2SC5242OTU from ON Semiconductor is an NPN epitaxial silicon power transistor in TO-3P package, rated for 250V VCEO, 17A IC, and 130W power dissipation at TC = 25°C. It delivers high-frequency response (fT = 30MHz), excellent gain linearity for low THD, and wide SOA-designed specifically for high-fidelity audio output amplifiers and general-purpose linear power amplifier stages.
For engineers reviewing the 2SC5242OTU datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include verified hFE grade O (80–160 at IC = 1A), thermal resistance RθJC = 0.96°C/W, safe operating area robustness under pulsed and DC conditions, and complementary pairing with 2SA1962OTU in push-pull audio output stages.
Technical Context
This device operates as a linear-mode NPN bipolar junction transistor with epitaxial base construction, optimized for Class AB audio output stages where low distortion and thermal stability are critical. Its hFE classification (O grade: 80–160 at VCE = 5V, IC = 1A) and strong gain linearity across 1–7A ensure consistent biasing and minimal intermodulation distortion.
The 2SC5242OTU features a rugged SOA envelope supporting single nonrepetitive pulses up to 100ms at 250V/10A, and DC operation up to 17A with proper heatsinking. Its 200pF Cob at VCB = 10V enables stable high-frequency amplification without excessive Miller feedback in broadband designs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | 250V - Supports rail voltages up to ±125V in split-supply audio amplifiers without breakdown risk. |
| IC (DC) | 17A - Enables >200W continuous output into 4Ω loads when paired with complementary PNP devices. |
| PD @ TC=25°C | 130W - Requires minimum 0.96°C/W heatsink thermal path to maintain TJ < 150°C under full load. |
| fT | 30MHz - Ensures stable gain and phase margin beyond audio band (20kHz), supporting wideband compensation. |
| hFE (O grade) | 80–160 @ VCE=5V, IC=1A - Tighter hFE spread than R grade improves matched pair consistency in differential input stages. |
| RθJC | 0.96°C/W - Confirms direct metal-to-heatsink mounting capability; case temperature rise is ≤125°C at 130W dissipation. |
| Cob | 200pF @ VCB=10V - Limits Miller capacitance-induced instability in high-gain common-emitter configurations. |
Pinout & Package
2SC5242OTU is housed in a TO-3P (also known as TO-218) thermally enhanced through-hole package with isolated collector tab. The package features three leads arranged in linear order: Base (Lead 1), Collector (Lead 2), Emitter (Lead 3). Mounting requires insulated hardware due to collector-to-case isolation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Base) | Control electrode for current amplification | Low-impedance input requiring ~0.8A peak drive for full 17A conduction; sensitive to ESD and layout parasitics. |
| 2 (Collector) | Main current-carrying terminal (isolated tab) | Electrically isolated metal tab enables direct heatsink mounting without insulating washer; connects to high-voltage rail. |
| 3 (Emitter) | Current return path and reference node | Serves as local ground reference for emitter degeneration resistors; must minimize trace inductance in high-slew-rate applications. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Wide Safe Operating Area (SOA) | Supports 100ms single-pulse operation at 250V/10A-enables reliable transient overload handling in audio amplifiers without secondary breakdown. |
| High Gain Linearity | hFE variation <±15% from 1A to 7A ensures stable quiescent current and low THD across output swing. |
| O-grade hFE binning | 80–160 range at IC=1A allows tighter matching with complementary 2SA1962OTU for push-pull symmetry. |
| Thermal SPICE model availability | Enables accurate junction temperature prediction in thermal-aware circuit simulation prior to prototype build. |
Applications
| High-Fidelity Audio Output Amplifier | General-Purpose Linear Power Amplifier |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Final output stage of discrete Class AB stereo amplifier delivering 100–200W into 4–8Ω speakers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN output transistor in complementary push-pull configuration, conducting during positive half-cycle of audio waveform. Use Value: Low THD (<0.05%) achieved via gain linearity and wide SOA; 250V rating supports ±100V rails for headroom. |
Use Scenario: Regulated DC power supply pass element or industrial motor driver H-bridge leg. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear pass transistor controlling output voltage via base-emitter bias; not switching. Use Value: 130W dissipation and 0.96°C/W RθJC enable stable regulation under 15A load without forced air cooling. |
| Discrete Audio Preamp Driver Stage | RF Power Amplifier (HF Band) |
Use Scenario: Voltage gain stage driving 2SC5242OTU base in multi-stage audio amplifier with local feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Medium-power NPN driver providing ≥0.8A peak base current with low output impedance. Use Value: 30MHz fT ensures flat gain to 500kHz, preserving square-wave fidelity and slew rate in transient response. |
Use Scenario: Final amplifier in HF transmitter (3–30MHz) delivering 50–100W RF output. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear RF power transistor operating in Class C or AB with tuned collector load. Use Value: 200pF Cob minimizes Miller effect at 30MHz; 250V VCEO supports high-voltage RF tank circuits. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN power transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2SC5200 (TO-264) | Same die, higher 150W rating due to TO-264's lower RθJC (0.83°C/W); identical electrical specs. | Better suited for ultra-high-power amplifiers (>300W) where thermal margin is critical. | Select 2SC5200 only if board layout accommodates larger TO-264 footprint and enhanced heatsinking is available. |
| FJP5200 (TO-220) | Same die family but derated to 80W PD and 15A IC; RθJC = 1.5°C/W; smaller TO-220 package. | Targeted at mid-power audio (≤50W) or space-constrained designs where thermal performance is secondary. | Choose FJP5200 only for cost-sensitive, lower-power applications where PCB real estate limits TO-3P use. |
Compared with 2SC5242OTU, 2SC5200 offers superior thermal performance in larger systems, while FJP5200 trades power capability for compactness-neither is pin-compatible, and all require dedicated footprint design.
Availability
2SC5242OTU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-fidelity audio output amplifiers, general-purpose linear power amplifiers, and discrete RF power amplifier designs requiring stable component supply with traceable sourcing and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for 2SC5242OTU 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
ON Semiconductor (formerly Fairchild Semiconductor) is a global leader in intelligent power and sensing technologies, serving automotive, industrial, cloud, and consumer markets with energy-efficient semiconductor solutions.
The 2SC5242OTU belongs to ON Semiconductor's legacy high-power audio transistor product line, engineered specifically for discrete amplifier designs demanding low distortion, rugged SOA, and thermal reliability in linear operation.
FAQ
What is the hFE range for 2SC5242OTU?
The 2SC5242OTU is binned to the O-grade hFE specification: 80–160 measured at VCE = 5V and IC = 1A. This tighter spread than the R-grade variant (55–110) improves matching accuracy when pairing with complementary 2SA1962OTU transistors in push-pull output stages. The 2SC5242OTU maintains usable gain down to IC = 7A (hFE2 = 35–60), supporting stable biasing across full output swing.
Is 2SC5242OTU pin-compatible with 2SC5200?
No, 2SC5242OTU is not pin-compatible with 2SC5200. While both share the same silicon die, 2SC5242OTU uses the TO-3P package with 3-pin linear lead arrangement (Base–Collector–Emitter), whereas 2SC5200 uses the larger TO-264 package with different pin spacing and mechanical mounting. PCB layout and heatsink interface must be redesigned to substitute either part. The 2SC5242OTU datasheet confirms its exclusive TO-3P footprint.
What is the maximum safe continuous collector current for 2SC5242OTU?
The absolute maximum continuous collector current for 2SC5242OTU is 17A at TC = 25°C, per the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. However, sustained operation at this level requires a heatsink capable of maintaining case temperature ≤25°C-practically unachievable without extreme cooling. Derating curves show usable DC current drops to ~10A at TC = 75°C and ~6A at TC = 100°C. Always verify thermal design using the 0.96°C/W RθJC value for the 2SC5242OTU.
Does 2SC5242OTU have SPICE models available?
Yes, thermal and electrical SPICE models for 2SC5242OTU are officially provided by ON Semiconductor and referenced in the "Features" section of its datasheet. These models include junction-to-case thermal dynamics and nonlinear BJT behavior, enabling accurate transient and thermal simulation of amplifier stages before hardware prototyping. Models are downloadable from ON Semiconductor's official product page for 2SC5242OTU.
Can 2SC5242OTU be used in switching applications?
The 2SC5242OTU is characterized and optimized for linear operation-not switching. Its datasheet specifies parameters like fT, Cob, and SOA for analog amplification, with no guaranteed switching speed, storage time, or turn-off characteristics. While it can conduct in saturation, lack of specified ton/toff and risk of secondary breakdown make it unsuitable for PWM or digital switching. For switching, ON Semiconductor recommends dedicated MOSFETs or BJTs like the MJD127 series. The 2SC5242OTU should remain in linear amplifier roles.
2SC5242OTU Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-3P-3, SC-65-3
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Last Time Buy
- Transistor Type:
- NPN
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 17 A
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 250 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 3V @ 800mA, 8A
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 5µA (ICBO)
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 80 @ 1A, 5V
- Power - Max:
- 130 W
- Frequency - Transition:
- 30MHz
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-3P
2SC5242OTU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 2SC5242OTU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 2SC5242OTU 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 2SC5242OTU reliable?
The price and inventory of 2SC5242OTU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 2SC5242OTU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 2SC5242OTU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 2SC5242OTU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 2SC5242OTU?
2SC5242OTU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 2SC5242OTU 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 2SC5242OTU?
For technical support, including 2SC5242OTU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 2SC5242OTU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 2SC5242OTU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 2SC5242OTU 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 2SC5242OTU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 2SC5242OTU?
All 2SC5242OTU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 2SC5242OTU, 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 2SC5242OTU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 2SC5242OTU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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