Diodes Incorporated DZT591C-13

Overview

DZT591C-13 from Diodes Incorporated is a PNP bipolar junction transistor in SOT-223 package, rated for -60 V V_CEO, -1 A continuous collector current, and 1 W power dissipation. It delivers h_FE = 100–300 at I_C = -500 mA and operates reliably from -55 °C to +150 °C, commonly used in medium-power switching circuits such as DC-DC converter control stages and relay drivers.

For engineers reviewing the DZT591C-13 datasheet, DZT591C-13 pinout, DZT591C-13 application, or DZT591C-13 equivalent, key selection criteria include verified V_CEO rating, SOT-223 thermal performance on FR-4 PCB, h_FE consistency across I_C = -500 mA to -1 A, and V_CE(SAT) ≤ -0.6 V under I_C = -1 A / I_B = -100 mA conditions.

Technical Context

This PNP transistor uses epitaxial planar die construction for stable gain and low leakage, with complementary NPN type DZT491 available. Its breakdown ratings (V_(BR)CBO = -80 V, V_(BR)CEO = -60 V) support robust operation in inductive load switching where voltage transients exceed 50 V.

Designed for automated SMT assembly, it features matte tin-plated copper leadframe, J-STD-020C Level 1 moisture sensitivity, and UL 94V-0 mold compound. Thermal derating follows Fig. 1: full 1 W dissipation up to T_A = 70 °C, linearly reduced to zero at 150 °C ambient.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT-223 - Surface-mount plastic package with exposed collector tab for thermal conduction to PCB copper; 0.115 g mass; UL 94V-0 rated molding compound.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MJD2955G and ZTX951, DZT591C-13 uniquely balances SMT manufacturability, 1 W thermal capability via exposed tab, and h_FE consistency-making it optimal for compact, high-reliability medium-power switching where board space and thermal margin are jointly constrained.

Availability

DZT591C-13 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DC-DC converters, industrial relay drivers, LED current regulators, and overvoltage protection circuits requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for DZT591C-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, headquartered in Plano, Texas, with design and manufacturing operations across Asia and the Americas.

The DZT591C belongs to Diodes' general-purpose bipolar transistor product line, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-volume medium-power switching and amplification applications in industrial and consumer power systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable base current for continuous operation?

The absolute maximum base current is -200 mA per datasheet Section "Maximum Ratings." However, for reliable continuous operation at I_C = -1 A, the recommended base drive is -100 mA (ensuring h_FE ≥ 10 and V_CE(SAT) ≤ -0.6 V). Exceeding -100 mA does not improve saturation and risks localized heating at the base-emitter junction.

Can DZT591C-13 replace DZT491 in a circuit?

No-DZT491 is the complementary NPN device, not a functional replacement. Swapping PNP for NPN would invert logic polarity and require redesign of bias networks, collector/emitter connections, and load referencing. They are intended for matched pair use in push-pull or differential configurations-not direct substitution.

Is the exposed collector tab electrically isolated?

No-the collector tab (Pin 3 and thermal pad) is electrically connected to the collector terminal. It must be routed to the same net as Pin 3 on the PCB. Any attempt to isolate it thermally (e.g., with insulating thermal pads) will compromise both electrical function and thermal performance, violating the AP02001 layout guidance.

Does DZT591C-13 require derating above 70 °C ambient?

Yes-per Fig. 1 in the datasheet, power dissipation must be linearly derated from 1 W at 70 °C to 0 W at 150 °C ambient. At 100 °C ambient, maximum allowed P_D is 0.67 W. This derating applies regardless of PCB copper area unless custom thermal validation per JESD51-2 is performed.