Alpha & Omega Semiconductor Inc. AOD516

Overview

AOD516 from Alpha & Omega Semiconductor is a 30V, 46A N-channel Trench Power MOSFET in TO-252 (DPAK) package, optimized for high-efficiency DC/DC converters in computing and isolated telecom/industrial power supplies. It delivers <5mΩ R_DS(on) at V_GS=10V and <10mΩ at V_GS=4.5V, with low gate charge (Q_g=18.3–33nC) and 100% UIS-tested ruggedness.

For engineers reviewing the AOD516 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its 30V V_DS, 46A continuous drain current at T_C=25°C, 2.5°C/W junction-to-case thermal resistance, and suitability for synchronous rectification and primary-side switching in high-frequency SMPS designs.

Technical Context

The AOD516 employs advanced Trench Power MOSFET technology to achieve ultra-low on-resistance at both 10V and 4.5V gate drive, enabling efficient operation with standard logic-level and PWM controllers. Its low Q_g (8.5–17nC at 4.5V) and fast switching parameters (t_D(on)=7.5ns, t_f=4.5ns) support high-frequency converter topologies up to several hundred kHz.

Designed for thermally demanding environments, the device features a maximum junction temperature of 175°C, 100% R_g tested gate resistance (0.8–2.6Ω), and robust avalanche capability (E_AS=42mJ). Its body diode exhibits low V_SD=0.7–1.0V and fast reverse recovery (t_rr=14.1ns, Q_rr=16.2nC) under 500A/µs dI/dt conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-252 (DPAK), surface-mount, single-die, three-terminal configuration with exposed drain pad for thermal and electrical connection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IRF7470PBF and SiR872DP-T1-GE3, the AOD516 offers the best balance of ultra-low R_DS(on), moderate gate charge, and proven ruggedness at competitive cost-making it ideal for mid-tier computing and telecom power stages where thermal headroom and driver simplicity are prioritized over absolute minimum on-resistance.

Availability

AOD516 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server VRM power stages, telecom isolated DC/DC converters, and industrial PLC power modules requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance across production lots, and long-term lifecycle availability.

Supply support for AOD516 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 AOD516 belongs to AOS's AlphaMOS family-engineered specifically for high-current, high-frequency DC/DC conversion with emphasis on low R_DS(on), fast switching, and ruggedness in thermally constrained surface-mount applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous drain current rating for AOD516 at 100°C case temperature?

The AOD516 has a continuous drain current rating of 36A at T_C=100°C, as specified in its Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This derating reflects thermal limitations of the TO-252 package under elevated ambient or heatsink conditions. Designers must verify junction temperature using R_θJC=2.5°C/W and actual power dissipation to ensure operation remains within the 175°C maximum junction limit. The AOD516 maintains safe conduction up to this current if PCB copper area and airflow meet datasheet test conditions.

Does AOD516 support logic-level gate drive at 3.3V?

The AOD516 is not fully characterized for reliable enhancement-mode operation at 3.3V gate drive. Its gate threshold voltage (V_GS(th)) ranges from 1.8V to 2.6V at 25°C, but R_DS(on) is only guaranteed <10mΩ at V_GS=4.5V. At 3.3V, conduction resistance increases significantly-typically >15mΩ-leading to excessive conduction loss. For 3.3V systems, the AOD516 should be paired with a gate driver or used in applications where partial enhancement is acceptable, such as low-duty-cycle synchronous rectification. Always validate with actual board-level testing.

What is the body diode forward voltage of AOD516 and how does it affect synchronous rectification?

The AOD516 body diode forward voltage (V_SD) is 0.7–1.0V at I_S=1A and T_J=25°C. In synchronous rectification, this low V_SD minimizes reverse recovery loss and improves light-load efficiency compared to discrete Schottky diodes. Its fast t_rr=14.1ns and low Q_rr=16.2nC further reduce switching loss during dead-time transitions. However, designers must ensure gate drive timing avoids shoot-through, as the AOD516's low R_DS(on) makes it highly susceptible to cross-conduction if source and drain potentials overlap during switching.

Is AOD516 suitable for automotive applications?

The AOD516 is explicitly designed and qualified for the consumer market per its datasheet disclaimer and is not AEC-Q101 qualified. While its 175°C maximum junction temperature and 100% UIS testing suggest robustness, it lacks automotive-specific stress testing (e.g., HTOL, temperature cycling, ESD HBM ≥2kV), failure rate reporting, and PPAP documentation. For automotive applications-including ADAS power supplies or infotainment DC/DC converters-AOS recommends AEC-Q101-qualified alternatives like the AON6254 or equivalent qualified parts from other manufacturers. Use of AOD516 in automotive systems is not authorized by AOS.

How does the thermal performance of AOD516 compare between junction-to-case and junction-to-ambient measurements?

The AOD516 has a maximum junction-to-case thermal resistance (R_θJC) of 3°C/W, measured with the device mounted to a large heatsink-making it suitable for high-power applications with external cooling. Its junction-to-ambient rating (R_θJA) is 41–50°C/W on a 1in² FR-4 board with 2oz copper, indicating significant thermal dependence on PCB layout. For reliable operation above 2.5W, designers must implement thermal vias under the drain pad and use adequate copper pour. The AOD516's thermal advantage lies in its ability to dissipate >25W when properly heatsinked, unlike many DPAK MOSFETs limited to <10W in still air.