STMicroelectronics 2STW4468

Overview

2STW4468 from STMicroelectronics is a high-power NPN epitaxial planar bipolar transistor using BiT-LA technology, designed for linear audio amplifier output stages. It delivers V_CEO = 140 V, I_C = 10 A, P_tot = 100 W at T_c = 25 °C, f_T = 20 MHz, and operates up to T_J = 150 °C - optimized for 70–100 W high-fidelity audio power amplifiers.

For engineers reviewing the 2STW4468 datasheet, 2STW4468 pinout, 2STW4468 application, or 2STW4468 equivalent, key selection factors include safe operating area (SOA) at elevated case temperature, gain linearity (h_FE = 70–140 at I_C = 3–5 A), low V_CE(sat) (0.5–0.7 V), and TO-247 thermal resistance (R_thj-case ≤ 1.25 °C/W).

Technical Context

This NPN transistor employs ST's BiT-LA process to enhance gain linearity and thermal stability in Class AB audio output stages. Its SOA is fully characterized at 125 °C, supporting robust operation under sustained high-current, high-voltage conditions typical of discrete audio amplifier designs.

The device features fast-switching capability (t_on = 0.22 µs, t_stg = 4.3 µs, t_f = 0.5 µs) and low capacitance (C_CBO = 150 pF at V_CB = 10 V), enabling stable wideband performance without oscillation in feedback-coupled output topologies.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

2STW4468 is housed in a TO-247 package - a through-hole, single-ended, isolated-tab power package with three leads, optimized for high-power dissipation and mechanical robustness in audio amplifier modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-power audio NPN transistor applications.

Compared with 2SC5200 and MJE15030, the 2STW4468 offers uniquely validated gain linearity and SOA at 125 °C - making it preferable for thermally constrained, high-fidelity audio output stages where distortion performance must be maintained across ambient and thermal transients.

Availability

2STW4468 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-fidelity audio power amplifiers, professional PA systems, and studio monitor output stages requiring stable component supply and consistent parametric performance across production batches.

Supply support for 2STW4468 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, analog ICs, microcontrollers, and automotive semiconductors.

The 2STW4468 belongs to ST's BiT-LA (Bipolar transistor for Linear Amplifier) product line - engineered specifically for high-linearity, high-reliability audio power output applications demanding low distortion and thermal stability.

FAQ

Is the 2STW4468 still in active production?

No - STMicroelectronics has marked the 2STW4468 as Obsolete Product(s) per its official datasheet revision history (Rev 4, October 2008). However, Aetrix Electronics maintains legacy inventory with full traceability and supports continued use in repair, maintenance, and legacy system manufacturing where form-fit-function compatibility is required.

What is the recommended base drive for 2STW4468 in Class AB operation?

For linear operation at I_C = 5 A, apply I_B = 500 mA (h_FE ≈ 100); for I_C = 7 A, use I_B = 700 mA. Base drive must be current-limited and thermally stable - typical implementation uses emitter-degenerated driver transistors with local feedback to prevent thermal runaway.

Can 2STW4468 be used in parallel configurations?

Yes - its positive temperature coefficient of V_CE(sat) enables inherent current sharing. Parallel operation requires matched h_FE (±10%), individual emitter resistors (0.1–0.22 Ω), and symmetrical layout to minimize thermal gradients. Derate total P_tot by 15% per additional device beyond two.

Does the TO-247 package require insulating hardware when mounted to a heatsink?

Yes - the collector is internally connected to the metal tab in the TO-247 package. Electrical isolation from the heatsink is mandatory unless the heatsink is floating or referenced to collector potential. Use ST-approved mica washers or silicone thermal pads with dielectric strength ≥2 kV and thermal resistance <0.5 °C·in²/W.