onsemi FPN560A

Overview

FPN560A from Fairchild Semiconductor is an NPN low-saturation transistor designed for high-current switching in power management circuits, featuring V_CEO = 60 V, I_C = 3.0 A continuous, V_CE(sat) = 300 mV at I_C = 1.0 A / I_B = 100 mA, h_FE = 560 at I_C = 100 mA, and TO-226 package - used in DC-DC converter output stages and motor driver H-bridge legs.

For engineers reviewing the FPN560A datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include verified low V_CE(sat) under high I_C, thermal resistance R_θJA = 125 °C/W, junction temperature range –55 to +150 °C, and confirmed TO-226 leadframe configuration with C–B–E terminal order.

Technical Context

This device operates as a discrete NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for low-voltage saturation in linear and switched-mode power applications. Its design emphasizes high DC current gain (h_FE ≥ 560 at low I_C) and tight V_CE(sat) control (300–350 mV across 1–2 A), enabled by Fairchild's Process NA fabrication.

It supports stable operation up to 150 °C junction temperature with R_θJC = 50 °C/W and R_θJA = 125 °C/W, and delivers f_T = 75 MHz at I_C = 100 mA - suitable for medium-frequency switching where gain and saturation voltage trade-offs are critical.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

FPN560A is housed in a TO-226 (also known as TO-92) through-hole plastic package with standard lead orientation: Collector (C), Base (B), Emitter (E) - viewed from flat side with leads down, left-to-right order is C–B–E.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN switching transistor applications.

Compared with MJD127G and ZTX653, FPN560A delivers superior conduction efficiency at 1–2 A due to its 300 mV V_CE(sat) and 560 h_FE, making it optimal for thermally constrained, high-duty-cycle power switches where low-loss operation is mandatory.

Availability

FPN560A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DC-DC converters, brushed DC motor drivers, LED constant-current sinks, and power supply OR-ing circuits requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term continuity.

Supply support for FPN560A 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

Fairchild Semiconductor was a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in power management, analog, and discrete components before its acquisition by ON Semiconductor in 2016.

The FPN560A belongs to Fairchild's NPN low-saturation transistor family, engineered for high-current gain and minimal conduction loss in industrial and automotive power switching applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for FPN560A?

The FPN560A is rated for 3.0 A continuous collector current at T_A = 25 °C with proper heatsinking. Derating is required above 25 °C ambient per the Power Dissipation vs Ambient Temperature curve - at 75 °C ambient, maximum I_C drops to approximately 1.5 A. This rating assumes operation within the specified R_θJA = 125 °C/W thermal limit and junction temperature not exceeding +150 °C.

Is FPN560A pin-compatible with FPN560?

Yes, FPN560A and FPN560 share identical TO-226 packaging, pinout (C–B–E), and absolute maximum ratings. The primary difference lies in electrical characteristics: FPN560A guarantees h_FE ≥ 560 at I_C = 100 mA, while FPN560 specifies h_FE ≥ 250 under the same conditions. Both parts are physically interchangeable, but FPN560A provides tighter gain consistency for precision base-drive designs.

What is the typical V_CE(sat) of FPN560A at 2.0 A collector current?

The typical V_CE(sat) of FPN560A at I_C = 2.0 A and I_B = 200 mA is 300 mV, with a maximum specification of 350 mV. This value is confirmed in the "ON CHARACTERISTICS" table of the official datasheet and reflects stable low-saturation performance across the device's rated current range - critical for minimizing power loss in high-current switching nodes.

Does FPN560A meet RoHS requirements?

Yes, FPN560A complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. Fairchild Semiconductor's documentation confirms lead-free finish and halogen-free molding compound for this part, consistent with its production date and packaging (TO-226). No exemptions apply, and the device is fully compliant for use in consumer, industrial, and commercial electronics without restriction.

Can FPN560A be used in linear regulator pass transistor applications?

FPN560A can be used as a pass transistor in linear regulators, provided thermal design accommodates its R_θJA = 125 °C/W and maximum P_D = 1.0 W. At 2 A output with 5 V dropout, dissipation reaches 10 W - far exceeding its rating. Therefore, it is only suitable for low-power linear regulators (<500 mA) or high-efficiency LDOs with minimal dropout, where V_CE(sat) and h_FE directly improve regulation accuracy and load transient response.