Diodes Incorporated DPLS315E-13

Overview

DPLS315E-13 from Diodes Incorporated is a low V_CE(SAT) PNP surface-mount transistor in SOT-223 package, rated for -3 A continuous collector current, -15 V V_CEO, and 70 mΩ R_CE(SAT) at -3 A. It delivers h_FE > 300 at -2 A and operates across -55°C to +150°C, serving as a medium-power switching device in DC-DC converter output stages.

For engineers reviewing the DPLS315E-13 datasheet, DPLS315E-13 pinout, DPLS315E-13 application, or DPLS315E-13 equivalent, key selection criteria include verified V_CE(SAT) performance at high I_C, thermal resistance (R_θJA = 125°C/W), complementary NPN pairing (DNLS412E), and RoHS-compliant lead-free plating suitable for automated SMT assembly.

Technical Context

This PNP bipolar junction transistor uses epitaxial planar die construction to achieve stable gain and low saturation voltage under high-current switching conditions. Its V_CE(SAT) ranges from -0.08 V at -0.5 A/–2.5 mA to -0.25 V at -3 A/–50 mA, with h_FE maintaining ≥300 up to -2 A at V_CE = -2 V.

The device features a thermally robust SOT-223 package with exposed collector tab (pins 2 & 4 tied internally), enabling direct PCB copper pour heatsinking. Its f_T = 100 MHz supports fast switching in PWM-driven loads, while C_ibo = 245 pF and C_obo = 45 pF define its small-signal capacitance profile at specified bias points.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-223 package with 4-terminal configuration: pins 2 and 4 are internally connected to collector, pin 3 is emitter, and pin 1 is base. The large exposed pad (collector) provides primary thermal path to PCB copper.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP medium-power switching applications.

Compared with FZT788B, DPLS315E-13 offers significantly lower conduction loss and higher gain, improving thermal headroom and reducing driver complexity; versus DNLS412E, it enables high-side PNP switching where polarity reversal is required, though not functionally substitutable due to opposite transistor type.

Availability

DPLS315E-13 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DC-DC converters, industrial motor drivers, LED constant-current regulators, and power supply enable switches requiring stable component supply and qualified SMT assembly compatibility.

Supply support for DPLS315E-13 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, specializing in high-reliability, application-optimized components for power management, signal integrity, and protection.

DPLS315E belongs to Diodes' low-saturation PNP transistor product line, engineered specifically for medium-power switching in space-constrained, thermally demanding applications such as point-of-load regulation and industrial actuation.

FAQ

Is DPLS315E-13 suitable for automotive applications?

No - although rated for –55°C to +150°C junction temperature, DPLS315E-13 is not AEC-Q101 qualified and carries a "NOT RECOMMENDED FOR NEW DESIGN" notice per Diodes' DS31325 Rev. 4. It lacks automotive-grade screening, failure-in-time (FIT) data, and stress-test validation required for automotive use.

What is the thermal performance difference between DPLS315E-13 and standard SOT-23 PNP transistors?

DPLS315E-13's SOT-223 package delivers R_θJA = 125°C/W on FR-4, versus typical SOT-23 values >300°C/W. This allows 1 W continuous dissipation - over 3× more than most SOT-23 PNPs - due to its larger copper area and internal collector-tab thermal path.

Can DPLS315E-13 be used in linear amplifier mode?

Yes - its h_FE stability (≥300 at –2 A) and low V_CE(SAT) support Class-A or AB linear operation up to ~1 W, but thermal derating must follow Fig. 1: maximum power drops to ~500 mW at 75°C ambient, requiring careful heatsinking for sustained linear use.

Does DPLS315E-13 require a base resistor for safe operation?

Yes - with h_FE ≥300 at –2 A, a base current of ≥6.7 mA is needed for full saturation at –2 A. A series base resistor (e.g., 330 Ω from 3.3 V logic) ensures proper drive while preventing excessive base-emitter forward bias beyond –5 V VEBO rating.