Alpha & Omega Semiconductor Inc. AOD3C50

Overview

AOD3C50 from Alpha & Omega Semiconductor is a 500 V, 3 A N-channel enhancement-mode MOSFET in TO-252 (DPAK) package, featuring R_DS(ON) ≤ 1.4 Ω at V_GS = 10 V, 12 nC typical gate charge, and 100% UIS-tested ruggedness. It serves as a primary switching device in offline AC/DC power supplies and LED lighting drivers.

For engineers reviewing the AOD3C50 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its 600 V breakdown rating, 1.2 °C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, avalanche energy rating of 152 mJ, and compliance with RoHS and halogen-free requirements.

Technical Context

The AOD3C50 employs Trench Power AlphaMOS-II technology to achieve low R_DS(ON) and reduced gate capacitance-C_iss = 662 pF, C_rss = 9.7 pF-enabling efficient high-frequency switching in flyback and buck converters. Its body diode exhibits V_SD = 0.78–1.0 V at I_S = 1 A and t_rr = 260 ns under specified test conditions.

Thermal design is supported by validated junction-to-case (1.2 °C/W) and case-to-sink (0.5 °C/W) resistances, with continuous drain current derated linearly above 25 °C ambient. The device is rated for repetitive avalanche operation (E_AS = 152 mJ) and features 100% R_g screening for gate drive consistency.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TO-252 (DPAK) surface-mount package with exposed drain pad for thermal and electrical connection. Standard 3-pin configuration: Gate (G), Drain (D), Source (S).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar N-channel MOSFET applications.

Compared with STP3NK60ZFP and IRF640NPBF, the AOD3C50 delivers optimal balance of SMT compatibility, thermal efficiency (1.2 °C/W R_θJC), and ruggedness validation-making it preferred for space-constrained, high-reliability industrial and lighting designs where layout density and surge immunity matter.

Availability

AOD3C50 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED lighting drivers, industrial AC/DC adapters, and consumer power supplies requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for AOD3C50 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-efficiency MOSFETs, IGBTs, and power ICs for power conversion and motor control.

The AOD3C50 belongs to AOS's AlphaMOS-II trench MOSFET family, engineered for high-voltage, medium-current switching in compact, thermally demanding applications such as offline power supplies and solid-state lighting.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous drain current rating for AOD3C50 at 100°C case temperature?

The AOD3C50 supports 3 A continuous drain current at T_C = 25 °C, derating linearly to approximately 1.8 A at T_C = 100 °C per Figure 12 in the datasheet. This reflects its thermal limit under real PCB heatsinking conditions-not ambient temperature-and assumes proper copper area and thermal vias beneath the drain pad.

Does AOD3C50 have a specified avalanche energy rating, and how is it tested?

Yes, the AOD3C50 is rated for 152 mJ repetitive avalanche energy (E_AS) and undergoes 100% unclamped inductive switching (UIS) testing per JEDEC JESD24-11. Testing uses L = 60 mH, I_AS = 2.25 A, V_DD = 150 V, R_G = 10 Ω, and starting T_J = 25 °C-ensuring ruggedness in transformer-reset and inductive-load scenarios.

Can AOD3C50 be driven directly by a 3.3 V microcontroller GPIO without a gate driver?

No-AOD3C50 has a gate threshold voltage (V_GS(th)) of 3.0–5.0 V and requires ≥10 V for full enhancement. At 3.3 V, R_DS(ON) remains high (>5 Ω), causing excessive conduction loss and thermal runaway. A dedicated gate driver or level-shifting circuit is required for reliable operation.

What is the thermal resistance from junction to ambient (R_θJA) for AOD3C50 on a standard PCB?

The AOD3C50 exhibits R_θJA = 55 °C/W when mounted on a 1 in² FR-4 board with 2 oz. copper (per Note G). This value assumes still air and defines worst-case self-heating; actual performance improves significantly with added copper area, thermal vias, or heatsinking to the drain pad.

Is AOD3C50 suitable for automotive applications?

No-the AOD3C50 is explicitly qualified for the consumer market only. Its datasheet states: "APPLICATIONS OR USES AS CRITICAL COMPONENTS IN LIFE SUPPORT DEVICES OR SYSTEMS ARE NOT AUTHORIZED." It lacks AEC-Q101 qualification, extended temperature screening, or automotive-grade traceability required for vehicle systems.