Alpha & Omega Semiconductor Inc. AO4438
- Part No.:
- AO4438
- Manufacturer:
- Alpha & Omega Semiconductor Inc.
- Category:
- FETs, MOSFETs
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
AO4438.pdf
- Description:
- MOSFET N-CH 60V 8.2A 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,675
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
AO4438 from Alpha & Omega Semiconductor is a 60V N-channel MOSFET in SOIC-8 package, featuring RDS(ON) < 22 mΩ at VGS = 10 V and 8.2 A continuous drain current. It employs advanced trench technology for low gate charge and high UIS robustness, and is used as a load switch or PWM power stage in DC-DC converters.
For engineers reviewing the AO4438 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its 60 V VDS, 22 mΩ on-resistance at 10 V drive, SOIC-8 thermal performance (RθJA = 40 °C/W), body-diode reverse recovery time of 34–41 ns, and 100% UIS-tested reliability for industrial switching.
Technical Context
The AO4438 is a single N-channel enhancement-mode MOSFET with trench-gate structure optimized for low conduction and switching losses. Its gate threshold voltage (2.0–3.0 V) enables compatibility with 3.3 V and 5 V logic-level drivers, and its 0.65–0.8 Ω gate resistance supports controlled turn-on/turn-off timing.
Thermal design relies on its SOIC-8 package with RθJL = 21 °C/W (junction-to-lead) and RθJA = 40 °C/W (steady-state, 1 in² FR-4, 2 oz Cu). The device's 1920–2300 pF input capacitance and 116 pF reverse transfer capacitance define its high-frequency gate drive requirements in PWM applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VDS | 60 V - Maximum blocking voltage for mid-voltage DC-DC and motor control stages |
| ID (continuous) | 8.2 A at TA = 25 °C - Sustains full-load current in compact SOIC-8 without forced cooling |
| RDS(ON) | < 22 mΩ at VGS = 10 V - Minimizes conduction loss in 12–48 V systems |
| Qg(10 V) | 47.6–58 nC - Determines gate driver power and switching speed in 100–500 kHz PWM |
| tr/tf | 5.5 ns / 5.2 ns - Enables fast edge rates for reduced switching loss and EMI |
| Body diode trr | 34–41 ns - Supports synchronous rectification and limits reverse recovery loss |
| RθJA | 40 °C/W - Defines thermal derating curve on standard PCB layout |
Pinout & Package
SOIC-8 surface-mount package with exposed drain pad (internally connected to pins 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are not all drains - see pin table below). Thermal performance assumes soldered drain pad to copper pour.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 | Drain (D) | Pins 1–4 and 6–8 are internally tied to drain; pin 5 is gate; pins 7–8 also connect to source - per top/bottom view labeling and internal die layout |
| 5 | Gate (G) | Single gate input; requires 10 V for full enhancement; compatible with 3.3 V logic when operated in linear region |
| 7, 8 | Source (S) | Source terminals; dual-source configuration improves current sharing and reduces source inductance in high-di/dt switching |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 100% UIS tested | Guarantees ruggedness under unclamped inductive switching stress up to rated IDM and VDS |
| Low Qg/Qgd ratio | Qgd/Qg ≈ 24–25% - Improves Miller immunity and reduces risk of false turn-on in half-bridge configurations |
| Enhanced body diode | trr = 34–41 ns and Qrr = 53 nC - Reduces reverse recovery loss versus standard MOSFETs in freewheeling paths |
| 100% Rg tested | Ensures consistent gate resistance (0.65–0.8 Ω) for predictable switching timing and driver sizing |
Applications
| DC-DC Buck Converter | Hot-Swap Controller |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: High-efficiency 12 V to 3.3 V/5 V step-down conversion in telecom and server power supplies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Synchronous high-side or low-side power switch operating at 300–500 kHz. Use Value: 22 mΩ RDS(ON) minimizes conduction loss; fast 5.5 ns rise time enables high-frequency operation with low switching loss. | Use Scenario: Inrush current limiting and fault isolation in 24–48 V backplane systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Load switch controlled by external gate driver or analog controller. Use Value: 60 V VDS headroom accommodates line transients; 100% UIS rating ensures survival during hot-plug surge events. |
| Motor Driver Half-Bridge | LED Constant-Current Driver |
Use Scenario: Low-voltage brushed DC motor control in industrial actuators and HVAC fans. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side switch in PWM-driven H-bridge with body-diode freewheeling. Use Value: 34–41 ns trr and 53 nC Qrr reduce shoot-through risk and power dissipation during commutation. | Use Scenario: Dimmable LED string driver in architectural and signage lighting. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PWM-controlled current sink for constant-current regulation. Use Value: 8.2 A ID supports multi-string parallel operation; SOIC-8 footprint simplifies thermal management on LED driver PCBs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar N-channel MOSFET applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRF7470PBF | RDS(ON) = 21 mΩ @ 10 V, but higher Qg (62 nC) and slower tr (12 ns) | Less suitable for >300 kHz switching due to higher gate charge and slower edges | Prefer AO4438 where high-frequency efficiency and fast switching are critical |
| Si2308DS-T1-E3 | Lower voltage rating (30 V), smaller SOT-23 package, RDS(ON) = 28 mΩ @ 4.5 V | Limited to ≤24 V systems; unsuitable for 48 V bus or inductive load protection | Choose AO4438 for 60 V capability, SOIC-8 thermal margin, and 100% UIS qualification |
Compared with IRF7470PBF and Si2308DS-T1-E3, the AO4438 delivers superior high-frequency switching performance via lower Qg and faster tr/tf, while maintaining 60 V robustness and SOIC-8 thermal handling - making it optimal for compact, high-efficiency 12–48 V power stages requiring reliability under transient stress.
Availability
AO4438 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DC-DC converters, hot-swap controllers, motor driver half-bridges, and LED constant-current drivers requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.
Supply support for AO4438 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
Alpha & Omega Semiconductor (AOS) is a fabless power semiconductor company specializing in high-performance MOSFETs, IGBTs, and power ICs for computing, consumer, and industrial markets.
The AO4438 belongs to AOS's TrenchMOS™ family, engineered for high-efficiency, high-reliability switching in mid-voltage power conversion and load management applications.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous drain current rating for the AO4438?
The AO4438 has a maximum continuous drain current (ID) of 8.2 A at TA = 25 °C, derating to 6.6 A at TA = 70 °C. This rating assumes SOIC-8 mounting on 1 in² FR-4 board with 2 oz copper and still air. Actual current capability depends on PCB layout, ambient temperature, and heatsinking. The AO4438 must be operated within its Safe Operating Area (SOA) curve, especially under pulsed conditions.
Is the AO4438 suitable for 3.3 V logic-level gate drive?
The AO4438 has a gate threshold voltage (VGS(th)) of 2.0–3.0 V, enabling partial turn-on with 3.3 V drive, but its RDS(ON) is specified at 27 mΩ only at VGS = 4.5 V and 22 mΩ at VGS = 10 V. For full enhancement and minimal conduction loss, 10 V gate drive is recommended. The AO4438 is not classified as a true logic-level MOSFET for 3.3 V-only operation.
Does the AO4438 have an integrated Schottky body diode?
No, the AO4438 uses a standard parasitic body diode formed by its vertical N-channel MOSFET structure. Its body diode has VSD = 0.74–1.0 V at IS = 1 A and reverse recovery time trr = 34–41 ns. It is not a Schottky or merged PIN-Schottky device; however, its trench process yields improved reverse recovery characteristics over planar MOSFETs.
What does "100% UIS tested" mean for the AO4438?
"100% UIS tested" means every AO4438 unit undergoes unclamped inductive switching stress testing at rated IDM and VDS to verify ruggedness against inductive energy spikes - common in motor drives and relay loads. This qualification ensures the AO4438 survives worst-case turn-off events without failure, distinguishing it from non-UIS-rated MOSFETs that may degrade or fail under similar conditions.
Can the AO4438 be used in parallel configurations?
Yes, the AO4438 supports paralleling due to its positive temperature coefficient of RDS(ON), which promotes current sharing as junction temperature rises. However, matched gate drive routing, symmetrical PCB layout, and individual gate resistors are required to ensure balanced switching. The dual-source pin configuration (pins 7 and 8) helps reduce source inductance imbalance in parallel setups. Always verify thermal coupling and current distribution in final design.
AO4438 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Alpha & Omega Semiconductor Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- FET Type:
- N-Channel
- Technology:
- MOSFET (Metal Oxide)
- Drain to Source Voltage (Vdss):
- 60 V
- Current - Continuous Drain (Id) @ 25°C:
- 8.2A (Ta)
- Drive Voltage (Max Rds On, Min Rds On):
- 4.5V, 10V
- Rds On (Max) @ Id, Vgs:
- 22mOhm @ 8.2A, 10V
- Vgs(th) (Max) @ Id:
- 3V @ 250µA
- Gate Charge (Qg) (Max) @ Vgs:
- 58 nC @ 10 V
- Vgs (Max):
- ±20V
- Input Capacitance (Ciss) (Max) @ Vds:
- 2300 pF @ 30 V
- FET Feature:
- -
- Power Dissipation (Max):
- 3.1W (Ta)
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
AO4438 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AO4438 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AO4438 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 AO4438 reliable?
The price and inventory of AO4438 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AO4438 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AO4438?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AO4438 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AO4438?
AO4438 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AO4438 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 AO4438?
For technical support, including AO4438 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AO4438 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AO4438 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AO4438 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 AO4438 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AO4438?
All AO4438 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AO4438, 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 AO4438 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AO4438:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
AO4438 Tags

-
BSZ180P03NS3EGATMA1
Infineon Technologies

-
SIRA14DP-T1-GE3
Vishay Siliconix

-
AO4419
Alpha & Omega Semiconductor Inc.

-
SISA14BDN-T1-GE3
Vishay Siliconix

-
PSMN9R5-30YLC,115
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
BUK9Y21-40E,115
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
RTQ035N03HZGTR
Rohm Semiconductor

-
FDMS7680
onsemi

-
RQ3E180BNTB
Rohm Semiconductor

-
STL6N2VH5
STMicroelectronics

-
DMPH4029LFGQ-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
DMT6015LSS-13
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Comparator circuit design covering voltage thresholds, input limits, open-collector outputs, LM393 wiring, op-amp differences, hysteresis, timing, window detection and practical fault diagnosis.
Schmitt triggers use separate rising and falling thresholds to stabilize slow or noisy signals. This guide covers hysteresis, 74HC14 and 74HCT14 selection, comparator calculations, RC oscillators and p…
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
