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Home > Products > Discrete Semiconductor Products > Transistors > Bipolar (BJT) > Single Bipolar Transistors

STMicroelectronics 2STC5948

Name: 2STC5948
Brand: STMicroelectronics
SKU: 2STC5948
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: 2STC5948

Manufacturer:: STMicroelectronics

Category:: Single Bipolar Transistors

Package:: TO-3P-3, SC-65-3

Datasheet:: 2STC5948.pdf

Description:: TRANS NPN 250V 17A TO-3P

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

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Product details

Overview

2STC5948 from STMicroelectronics is a high-power NPN epitaxial planar bipolar transistor designed for linear audio amplifier stages, featuring V_CEO = 250 V, I_C = 17 A continuous, P_TOT = 200 W at T_C = 25 °C, f_T = 25 MHz, and R_thj-case = 0.625 °C/W - deployed in TO-3P package for high-fidelity output stage applications.

For engineers reviewing the 2STC5948 datasheet, 2STC5948 pinout, 2STC5948 application, or 2STC5948 equivalent, key selection considerations include safe operating area (SOA) at elevated case temperatures, gain linearity under large-signal swing, thermal derating above 25 °C, and complementary pairing with 2STA2120 for push-pull configurations.

Technical Context

This device employs ST's BiT-LA (Bipolar transistor for linear amplifier) process to optimize h_FE linearity across collector current (35–160 at I_C = 1–7 A), minimizing harmonic distortion in Class AB audio output stages. Its SOA is fully characterized up to T_C = 125 °C, supporting robust thermal design in sealed enclosures.

The transistor exhibits low V_CE(sat) = 3 V at I_C = 8 A / I_B = 800 mA and V_BE = 1.5 V at I_C = 7 A, enabling efficient drive with standard ±15 V bias rails. Complementary PNP counterpart 2STA2120 shares identical voltage/current ratings and thermal performance.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_CEO	250 V - supports rail voltages up to ±100 V in dual-supply audio amplifiers without breakdown risk
I_C (continuous)	17 A - delivers >200 W into 4 Ω loads with appropriate heatsinking and thermal management
P_TOT	200 W at T_C = 25 °C - defines maximum dissipation before thermal derating begins
f_T	25 MHz - ensures stable operation and minimal phase shift up to mid-audio frequencies (≤20 kHz)
R_thj-case	0.625 °C/W - enables precise junction temperature estimation using measured case temperature
h_FE	35–160 - wide DC gain range supports both high-current output and stable bias network design
V_CE(sat)	3 V @ I_C = 8 A - limits conduction loss to <24 W per device in saturated switching regions of protection circuits

Pinout & Package

Delivered in TO-3P (also known as TO-218) thermally optimized plastic package with isolated metal tab, rated for 200 W dissipation and compatible with standard mounting hardware. Pin 1 = Collector (tab), Pin 2 = Base, Pin 3 = Emitter - verified per Figure 1 (internal schematic) and mechanical drawing (page 6).

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
1 (Tab)	Collector	Electrically connected to metal tab; requires insulating washer when mounted to grounded heatsink
2	Base	Low-impedance control terminal; driven by pre-driver stage with ≥800 mA peak base current capability
3	Emitter	Reference node for output stage; carries full load current and connects to emitter degeneration resistor or current sense path

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
BiT-LA process technology	Optimized h_FE linearity over I_C = 0.1–10 A reduces THD+N in audio output stages
Full 125 °C characterization	SOA, h_FE, and V_CE(sat) validated at T_C = 125 °C - supports industrial-grade thermal design
Complementary pairing	Matched specs with 2STA2120 enable symmetrical push-pull output stages without gain skew
ECOPACK® compliance	Lead-free second-level interconnect meets RoHS and JEDEC JESD97 marking requirements

Applications

High-Fidelity Audio Amplifier

Professional PA Output Stage

Use Scenario: Final output stage in discrete Class AB amplifier delivering 100–250 W into 4–8 Ω loudspeakers.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current NPN power switch handling full load current with minimal saturation loss and thermal drift.

Use Value: V_CEO = 250 V and SOA up to 125 °C ensure reliability under transient overload and clipping conditions.

Use Scenario: Dual-rail output module in touring-grade powered mixers requiring >200 W/channel sustained power.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary current-handling element in paralleled output banks with active thermal monitoring.

Use Value: R_thj-case = 0.625 °C/W enables accurate junction temperature prediction for fan-speed control and fault shutdown.

Studio Monitor Power Module

Industrial Audio Signal Distribution

Use Scenario: Bi-amplified near-field studio monitor with dedicated LF driver channel operating at ±85 V rails.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Linear output transistor biased in Class AB with emitter degeneration for DC offset stability.

Use Value: h_FE linearity (35–160) minimizes intermodulation distortion across 20 Hz–20 kHz bandwidth.

Use Scenario: Centralized audio distribution system feeding multiple zones with analog line-level signals amplified locally.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-gain output buffer driving long cable runs with low output impedance and high PSRR.

Use Value: V_CEO = 250 V and I_C = 17 A support 70 V/100 V constant-voltage line compatibility with headroom margin.

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-power linear amplifier applications.

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
2STA2120	Complementary PNP; identical V_CEO, I_C, P_TOT, and R_thj-case	Required for push-pull symmetry; not interchangeable as direct replacement	Select only for complementary pair implementation in Class AB/B output stages
MJE15030G	Slightly lower f_T (15 MHz), higher V_CE(sat) (3.5 V), same TO-3P package	Acceptable in lower-bandwidth (<10 kHz) or cost-sensitive industrial amplifiers	Prefer where THD tolerance >0.5% and thermal margin exceeds 15 °C

Compared with 2STA2120, this part provides matched NPN polarity for push-pull balance; versus MJE15030G, it offers superior gain-bandwidth product and lower saturation loss - critical for high-fidelity audio where linearity and efficiency co-constrain design.

Availability

2STC5948 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-fidelity audio amplifiers, professional PA systems, and studio monitor power modules requiring stable component supply and long-term BOM continuity.

Supply support for 2STC5948 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, Switzerland, specializing in power discrete devices, microcontrollers, and analog ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The 2STC5948 belongs to ST's BiT-LA linear amplifier transistor family, engineered specifically for low-distortion, high-reliability audio output stages with extended thermal operating range and SOA integrity.

FAQ

Is the 2STC5948 still in active production?

No - STMicroelectronics has marked the 2STC5948 as Obsolete (per document footer and revision history). However, Aetrix Electronics maintains legacy inventory with full traceability and offers engineering support for redesign and cross-reference validation to active alternatives.

What is the recommended heatsink interface for TO-3P mounting?

Use a mica or ceramic insulator with thermal grease (e.g., Arctic MX-4) between the metal tab (Pin 1, Collector) and heatsink. Mounting torque must be 0.5–0.7 N·m to ensure uniform pressure without cracking the package, per ST's mechanical data sheet (page 6).

Can the 2STC5948 replace the 2N3055 in audio amplifier designs?

Yes, with qualification: 2STC5948 offers higher V_CEO (250 V vs. 60 V), higher I_C (17 A vs. 15 A), and better f_T (25 MHz vs. ~0.8 MHz), but requires updated base drive and thermal layout due to higher gain and power density. SOA curves differ significantly - verify pulse and DC operating points.

Does the 2STC5948 require emitter degeneration resistors in Class AB operation?

Yes - emitter degeneration (typically 0.22–0.47 Ω) is mandatory to stabilize DC bias, prevent thermal runaway, and improve linearity. The device's h_FE variation (35–160) and positive temperature coefficient demand local negative feedback for reliable quiescent current control.

2STC5948 Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: STMicroelectronics

Series:: -

Package/Case:: TO-3P-3, SC-65-3

Packaging:: Tube

Product Status:: Obsolete

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:: 200 W

Frequency - Transition:: 25MHz

Operating Temperature:: 150°C (TJ)

Grade:: -

Qualification:: -

Mounting Type:: Through Hole

Supplier Device Package:: TO-3P

2STC5948 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for 2STC5948 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 2STC5948 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 2STC5948 reliable?

The price and inventory of 2STC5948 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 2STC5948 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for 2STC5948?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 2STC5948 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for 2STC5948?

2STC5948 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your 2STC5948 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 2STC5948?

For technical support, including 2STC5948 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 2STC5948 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that 2STC5948 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All 2STC5948 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 2STC5948 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of 2STC5948?

All 2STC5948 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 2STC5948, 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 2STC5948 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for 2STC5948:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

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