Send an Inquiry

To receive a quote for your project, please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Submit Inventory List

Please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Home > Products > Discrete Semiconductor Products > Transistors > Bipolar (BJT) > Single Bipolar Transistors

STMicroelectronics BUL213

Name: BUL213
Brand: STMicroelectronics
SKU: BUL213
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

Compare

Part No.:: BUL213

Manufacturer:: STMicroelectronics

Category:: Single Bipolar Transistors

Package:: TO-220-3

Datasheet:: BUL213.pdf

Description:: TRANS NPN 600V 3A TO-220

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

Payment:

Shipping:

Inventory:8,592

Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.

Product details

Overview

BUL213 from STMicroelectronics is a high-voltage fast-switching NPN power transistor in TO-220 package, rated for 1300 V V_CES, 3 A continuous collector current, and 60 W total dissipation at T_c = 25 °C. It features low base-drive requirements (V_BE(sat) = 1.2 V @ I_C = 0.5 A), very high switching speed (t_s = 4 µs, t_f = 250 ns), and full characterization at 125 °C - optimized for electronic ballasts and low-cost SMPS.

For engineers reviewing the BUL213 datasheet, BUL213 pinout, BUL213 application, or BUL213 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1300 V blocking capability, inductive-load SOA compliance, thermal resistance (R_thj-case = 2.08 °C/W), and validated 125 °C operation - critical for fluorescent lamp ballast reliability and compact flyback converter designs.

Technical Context

The BUL213 employs high-voltage Multiepitaxial Mesa technology with a Hollow Emitter structure to minimize minority-carrier storage and reduce switching times. Its rugged safe operating area supports inductive loads up to 400 V clamp voltage with controlled turn-off under IB1 = 0.2 A / IB2 = −0.4 A drive.

Designed specifically for lighting and cost-sensitive SMPS, it delivers stable h_FE (16–36) across I_C = 10 mA to 0.35 A and maintains V_CEO(sus) = 600 V with L = 25 mH - enabling robust operation without snubber complexity in resonant ballast topologies.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_CES	1300 V - Enables direct connection to 1000 V DC bus or rectified 800 VAC line without series stacking.
I_C (continuous)	3 A - Supports output power up to ~150 W in single-transistor flyback converters at 100 kHz.
t_s/t_f	4 µs / 250 ns - Reduces switching losses in high-frequency ballasts, allowing >50 kHz operation with minimal heatsink.
R_thj-case	2.08 °C/W - Allows 60 W dissipation with ≤125 °C junction rise over 25 °C case, compatible with standard TO-220 heatsinks.
h_FE	16–36 - Provides predictable base drive scaling for discrete gate driver circuits without feedback compensation.
T_j(max)	150 °C - Rated for continuous operation in enclosed luminaires and sealed power supplies without derating below ambient 75 °C.

Pinout & Package

TO-220 package with isolated mounting tab (collector-connected). Standard 3-pin configuration: Pin 1 = Base, Pin 2 = Collector (tab), Pin 3 = Emitter.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
Pin 1 (Base)	Control input	Low-threshold drive (V_BE(sat) = 1.2 V) enables direct interface with TTL/CMOS logic or small-signal transistors.
Pin 2 (Collector / Tab)	High-voltage power output	Electrically connected to metal tab - requires insulating washer when mounted to heatsink; handles full 1300 V blocking.
Pin 3 (Emitter)	Power return path	Low-inductance emitter bond ensures stable switching waveform; referenced to ground in common-emitter SMPS configurations.

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
Hollow Emitter structure	Reduces carrier storage time by >30% vs. planar NPN, enabling sub-5 µs storage time in inductive switching.
Full 125 °C characterization	Guarantees parametric stability (h_FE, V_CE(sat), leakage) across industrial temperature range without design margin inflation.
Minimum lot-to-lot spread	Ensures consistent switching timing and SOA behavior across production batches - critical for mass-produced ballast calibration.
Inductive load SOA compliance	Validated at V_CL = 400 V, L = 200 µH, eliminating need for external clamping in basic resonant lamp drivers.

Applications

Electronic Ballasts

Switch-Mode Power Supplies

Use Scenario: High-frequency (25–65 kHz) resonant inverters driving T5/T8 fluorescent lamps in commercial lighting fixtures.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main switching device in half-bridge topology; controls lamp current via zero-voltage switching transitions.

Use Value: 1300 V rating eliminates series stacking; fast t_f reduces EMI filter size; 125 °C rating sustains performance in thermally constrained enclosures.

Use Scenario: Single-transistor flyback converters for AC/DC adapters (12–24 V, 3–5 A output) in consumer electronics.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary-side power switch; operates at 60–100 kHz with discontinuous conduction mode (DCM).

Use Value: Low V_CE(sat) (0.5 V) minimizes conduction loss; R_thj-case = 2.08 °C/W allows passive cooling; TO-220 simplifies PCB layout and assembly.

Industrial Lighting Controls

UPS DC-DC Stages

Use Scenario: Dimmable HID lamp controllers with phase-cut input and high-voltage DC link (>600 V).

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-side switch in buck-derived pre-regulator stage; handles 100% mains surge without derating.

Use Value: V_CEO(sus) = 600 V with 25 mH inductance ensures reliable sustaining during line transients; low base-drive eases gate driver IC selection.

Use Scenario: Isolated DC-DC converters in online UPS systems converting 380–400 V DC bus to 12 V control rail.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary switch in forward or active-clamp flyback topology; operates with 50% duty cycle at 50 kHz.

Use Value: Robust SOA at T_c = 125 °C prevents thermal runaway during overload; 6 A I_CM supports peak-current protection schemes.

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-voltage NPN switching applications.

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
STGP10NC60KD	600 V, 10 A IGBT in TO-220; lower V_CE(sat) but slower t_f (150 ns vs. 250 ns) and no 1300 V rating.	Not suitable for direct 1000 V bus switching; requires voltage divider or series devices for same blocking.	Select only if system voltage ≤600 V and conduction loss dominates over switching loss.
BUL49D	Same TO-220 package; 1000 V V_CES, 5 A I_C, higher V_CE(sat) (1.2 V), slower t_s (10 µs).	Acceptable for lower-voltage SMPS but marginal in 230 VAC-fed electronic ballasts requiring 1300 V margin.	Choose when higher current is needed and 1300 V is not required; verify SOA at 125 °C.

Compared with STGP10NC60KD and BUL49D, the BUL213 uniquely balances ultra-high voltage (1300 V), fast switching (4 µs/250 ns), and proven 125 °C reliability - making it irreplaceable in cost-optimized, thermally constrained fluorescent ballasts where voltage margin and timing consistency are non-negotiable.

Availability

BUL213 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electronic ballasts, switch-mode power supplies, industrial lighting controls, and UPS DC-DC stages requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for BUL213 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, designing and manufacturing analog, microcontroller, power, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The BUL series belongs to ST's high-voltage bipolar power transistor product line, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability lighting and power conversion applications where voltage headroom and thermal robustness are prioritized over integration.

FAQ

Is the BUL213 pin-compatible with other TO-220 NPN transistors like the BU208A?

No - while both use TO-220 packages, the BUL213 has base-collector-emitter pinout (1-2-3), whereas BU208A uses base-emitter-collector (1-3-2). Mounting the BUL213 in a BU208A footprint will reverse bias the junction and cause immediate failure. Always verify pin assignment using the official STMicroelectronics mechanical drawing (P011CI).

Can the BUL213 be used in avalanche mode?

No - the BUL213 is not rated or characterized for repetitive avalanche operation. Its absolute maximum V_CEO = 600 V and V_CES = 1300 V define safe non-avalanche blocking limits. Operation beyond V_CEO without external clamping risks secondary breakdown and permanent damage, especially at elevated temperatures.

What is the recommended minimum base resistor value for 12 V TTL drive?

For I_C = 1 A and h_FE(min) = 16, minimum base current is 62.5 mA. With V_BE(sat) = 1.5 V at I_C = 1 A, the resistor must drop 10.5 V, yielding R_B ≈ 168 Ω. A 150 Ω, 0.5 W resistor is recommended to ensure saturation and accommodate h_FE degradation at 125 °C.

Does the BUL213 require a heatsink in a 25 W SMPS application?

Yes - even at 25 W output, conduction and switching losses can exceed 3 W at 100 kHz. With R_thj-case = 2.08 °C/W, a 10 °C/W heatsink keeps T_j < 125 °C at 25 °C ambient. Without heatsinking, junction temperature exceeds 150 °C within seconds, triggering thermal shutdown or failure.

BUL213 Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: STMicroelectronics

Series:: -

Package/Case:: TO-220-3

Packaging:: Tube

Product Status:: Obsolete

Transistor Type:: NPN

Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):: 3 A

Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):: 600 V

Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:: 900mV @ 200mA, 1A

Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):: 250µA

DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:: 16 @ 350mA, 3V

Power - Max:: 60 W

Frequency - Transition:: -

Operating Temperature:: 150°C (TJ)

Grade:: -

Qualification:: -

Mounting Type:: Through Hole

Supplier Device Package:: TO-220

BUL213 FAQ

1.How can I place an order for BUL213 through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BUL213 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 BUL213 reliable?

The price and inventory of BUL213 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BUL213 is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for BUL213?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BUL213 transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for BUL213?

BUL213 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your BUL213 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 BUL213?

For technical support, including BUL213 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BUL213 requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that BUL213 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All BUL213 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 BUL213 meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of BUL213?

All BUL213 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BUL213, 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 BUL213 part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for BUL213:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

Tech Hub

2026-09-08 Obsolete Electronic Components: How to Source and Evaluate Replacements

A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.

2026-09-07 TTL vs CMOS Logic Levels: 74HC and 74HCT Compatibility Explained

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.

2026-09-04 Logic Level Shifter: How to Connect 3.3V and 5V Logic Safely

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.

2026-09-03 74HC595 vs TPIC6B595: Output Drive, Pinout, Current, and Load Selection

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…

2026-09-02 74HC595 Pinout, Timing, Output Current, and Applications

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…

2026-09-01 Latch vs Flip-Flop: Timing, Differences and Design Choices

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…

2026-08-30 D Latch Circuit: Truth Table, Timing, ICs and Applications

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 …

2026-08-28 SR Latch Explained: NOR and NAND Circuits, Truth Tables, and Applications

An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…

2026-08-27 Latch Circuit: SR and D Latches, Truth Tables, Timing, and Applications

Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…

2026-08-21 What Is an LED Driver? Types, Circuits, Dimming, and Selection

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…