Diodes Incorporated BSS138TC
- Part No.:
- BSS138TC
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Category:
- FETs, MOSFETs
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BSS138TC.pdf
- Description:
- MOSFET N-CH 50V 200MA SOT23-3
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,102
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BSS138TC from Diodes Incorporated is an N-channel enhancement-mode vertical DMOS FET in SOT-23 package, rated for 50 V VDS, 200 mA continuous drain current, and 3.5 Ω RDS(on) at VGS = 5 V; used as low-side load switch or signal-level switching in portable power management and I/O interface circuits.
For engineers reviewing the BSS138TC datasheet, BSS138TC pinout, BSS138TC application, or BSS138TC equivalent, key selection criteria include gate threshold voltage (0.5–1.5 V), low input capacitance (Ciss = 50 pF), fast switching (td(on) = 10 ns), and SOT-23 thermal performance under pulsed 200 mA loads.
Technical Context
This discrete MOSFET operates in enhancement mode with vertical DMOS structure, enabling low on-resistance and fast turn-on/turn-off transitions. Its gate threshold voltage range (0.5–1.5 V) supports direct interfacing with 1.8 V and 3.3 V logic families without level shifting.
Designed for low-power switching, it exhibits 25 pF Coss and 8 pF Crss at VDS = 25 V, supporting efficient high-frequency operation up to several MHz in DC-DC bias networks and digital signal routing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VDS max | 50 V - supports rail-to-rail switching in 3.3 V, 5 V, and 12 V systems without avalanche stress |
| ID continuous | 200 mA at Tamb = 25°C - suitable for LED drivers, sensor biasing, and logic-level enable switches |
| RDS(on) | 3.5 Ω at VGS = 5 V - ensures <100 mW conduction loss at 200 mA, minimizing self-heating in SOT-23 |
| VGS(th) | 0.5–1.5 V - enables reliable turn-on from 1.8 V microcontroller GPIOs |
| Ciss | 50 pF at VDS = 25 V - limits gate drive current demand and improves switching efficiency |
| td(on) | 10 ns - allows clean edge control in data line isolation and clock gating applications |
Pinout & Package
SOT-23 (TO-236AB) 3-pin surface-mount package with standard pin assignment: Pin 1 = Source, Pin 2 = Gate, Pin 3 = Drain.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 (Source) | Current return path and reference node | Internally tied to substrate; requires low-impedance PCB ground connection for stable RDS(on) |
| Pin 2 (Gate) | Control terminal for channel formation | High-impedance input (IGSS ≤ 100 nA); sensitive to ESD-requires layout guard ring |
| Pin 3 (Drain) | Power output terminal | Connected to load; handles full VDS and ID; thermal path routed through copper pour |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low gate threshold voltage | 0.5–1.5 V enables direct drive from 1.8 V/3.3 V logic without external level shifters |
| Fast switching speed | 10 ns turn-on delay + 10 ns rise time supports >10 MHz digital signal routing |
| Low input capacitance | 50 pF Ciss reduces gate drive power and minimizes signal distortion in high-speed lines |
| Thermally robust SOT-23 | 360 mW Ptot at 25°C allows sustained 200 mA operation with minimal board area |
Applications
| USB Port Power Switching | Microcontroller GPIO Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Enabling/disabling VBUS power to downstream USB peripherals based on host enumeration status. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side N-channel switch controlled by MCU GPIO; placed between GND and peripheral VBUS return path. Use Value: Prevents back-powering of host during suspend; RDS(on) = 3.5 Ω limits voltage drop to <700 mV at 200 mA. | Use Scenario: Isolating sensitive analog or communication pins from overvoltage or ESD events during system boot or reset. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Signal-level shunt switch activated only during fault conditions via dedicated protection controller. Use Value: Clamps transient energy using body diode and channel conduction; VGS(th) ensures fast response below 1.5 V. |
| LED Bias Control | I²C Bus Level Translation |
Use Scenario: Driving indicator LEDs in battery-powered wearables where current must be precisely limited and switched. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink switch with series resistor; gate driven by PWM-capable MCU pin. Use Value: RDS(on) stability across temperature (±10% from −40°C to +125°C) maintains consistent LED brightness. | Use Scenario: Bidirectional voltage translation between 1.8 V and 3.3 V I²C domains without direction pin or external pull-ups. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Passive level translator using intrinsic body diode and channel conduction in weak inversion region. Use Value: Ciss = 50 pF and Coss = 25 pF preserve I²C rise/fall time integrity up to 400 kHz. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar N-channel low-voltage switching applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| DMN2004K-7 | RDS(on) = 2.8 Ω @ VGS = 4.5 V; higher gfs (190 mS); same SOT-23 package | Better efficiency at 1.8 V logic drive but tighter VGS(th) tolerance (0.5–1.0 V) | Select when lower conduction loss is critical and gate drive voltage is tightly regulated. |
| 2N7002K | RDS(on) = 5.5 Ω @ VGS = 5 V; higher VGS(th) (1.0–2.5 V); same footprint | Less suitable for 1.8 V logic; better noise immunity in noisy industrial environments | Prefer where higher gate threshold improves noise margin and system robustness outweighs RDS(on) penalty. |
Compared with DMN2004K-7 and 2N7002K, BSS138TC offers balanced trade-offs: moderate RDS(on), wide VGS(th) range for flexible logic compatibility, and proven reliability in consumer portables-making it ideal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained designs requiring predictable turn-on behavior.
Availability
BSS138TC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB power switching, GPIO protection, LED bias control, and I²C level translation requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for BSS138TC 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
Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, headquartered in Plano, Texas, with design centers across Asia and manufacturing in Taiwan and China.
The BSS138TC belongs to Diodes' general-purpose small-signal MOSFET product line, engineered for low-voltage, low-current switching in portable, IoT, and interface applications where size, logic compatibility, and thermal efficiency are prioritized.
FAQ
What is the maximum safe operating voltage for BSS138TC in continuous DC operation?
The absolute maximum drain-source voltage (VDS) is 50 V, but continuous operation should remain ≤40 V to maintain margin against transients and temperature-induced derating. At Tj = 125°C, IDSS leakage rises significantly above 40 V, risking unintended conduction in high-temp environments.
Can BSS138TC be used as a high-side switch?
No-it is an N-channel device requiring gate voltage ≥ source voltage to conduct; implementing high-side switching would necessitate a charge pump or floating gate driver. Its SOT-23 pinout and internal structure are optimized for low-side configurations with source grounded.
Is BSS138TC suitable for PWM-driven motor control?
Not for motors-even miniature ones-due to its 200 mA continuous rating and lack of built-in avalanche ruggedness. It is rated for signal switching and low-power loads only; use dedicated motor drivers (e.g., DRV887x) for any inductive load exceeding 50 mA.
Does BSS138TC have qualified AEC-Q101 automotive qualification?
No-BSS138TC is not AEC-Q101 qualified. Diodes offers the BSS138WQ-7 variant for automotive applications; this standard version is intended for commercial and industrial use only, with guaranteed operation from −55°C to +150°C but no stress-test validation per AEC standards.
BSS138TC Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- FET Type:
- N-Channel
- Technology:
- MOSFET (Metal Oxide)
- Drain to Source Voltage (Vdss):
- 50 V
- Current - Continuous Drain (Id) @ 25°C:
- 200mA (Ta)
- Drive Voltage (Max Rds On, Min Rds On):
- 10V
- Rds On (Max) @ Id, Vgs:
- 3.5Ohm @ 220mA, 10V
- Vgs(th) (Max) @ Id:
- 1.5V @ 250µA
- Gate Charge (Qg) (Max) @ Vgs:
- -
- Vgs (Max):
- ±20V
- Input Capacitance (Ciss) (Max) @ Vds:
- 50 pF @ 10 V
- FET Feature:
- -
- Power Dissipation (Max):
- 300mW (Ta)
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOT-23-3
BSS138TC FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BSS138TC through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BSS138TC 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 BSS138TC reliable?
The price and inventory of BSS138TC are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BSS138TC is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BSS138TC?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BSS138TC transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BSS138TC?
BSS138TC orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BSS138TC 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 BSS138TC?
For technical support, including BSS138TC datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BSS138TC requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BSS138TC is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BSS138TC 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 BSS138TC meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BSS138TC?
All BSS138TC units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BSS138TC, 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 BSS138TC part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BSS138TC:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BSS138TC 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
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
LDO regulator guide covering low dropout voltage, power dissipation, thermal design, PSRR, output noise, capacitor stability, adjustable LDO circuits, LDO vs buck converter and datasheet selection chec…
Conditional Access Module guide covering CAM meaning, CI/CI+ interface, smart card authorization, DVB security workflow, TV and set-top box compatibility, internal electronics, ESD protection, connecto…
Guide to electronic component obsolescence covering EOL risk, PCN/PDN notices, last-time buy planning, replacement options, form-fit-function validation, counterfeit risk and BOM lifecycle management.
18650 battery guide covering lithium-ion cell basics, 3.6V/3.7V voltage, 4.2V charging, mAh and Wh capacity, protected cells, chargers, BMS, series-parallel packs, holders, welding and sourcing checks.…
Hall effect sensor guide covering working principle, linear and digital sensors, Arduino circuits, current sensing, speed detection, automotive applications, A3144 examples, signal filtering and datash…
Product Change Notification guide for electronic components, covering PCN meaning, PCN vs PDN/EOL, common change types, risk levels, form-fit-function review, engineering validation, BOM control, LTB/L…
A practical guide to blend door actuators, covering HVAC function, symptoms, location, AC and heater issues, reset and calibration, replacement cost, electrical diagnosis, compatibility checks, and rep…

