Vishay Siliconix IRLU014

Overview

IRLU014 from Vishay Siliconix is a 60 V, 7.7 A N-channel logic-level power MOSFET in an IPAK (TO-251) through-hole package, featuring R_DS(on) = 0.20 Ω at V_GS = 5 V, 8.4 nC total gate charge, and fast switching with 9.3 ns turn-on delay - used in DC-DC converter synchronous rectification and industrial motor control.

For engineers reviewing the IRLU014 datasheet, IRLU014 pinout, IRLU014 application, or IRLU014 equivalent, this page delivers verified package mapping (IPAK/TO-251), validated thermal resistance (R_thJA = 50 °C/W on PCB mount), avalanche energy rating (E_AS = 27.4 mJ), body diode recovery time (t_rr = 65–130 ns), and logic-level gate drive compatibility down to 4 V.

Technical Context

The IRLU014 employs a third-generation TrenchFET® process optimized for low R_DS(on) and fast switching in high-efficiency DC-DC converters. Its gate threshold voltage (V_GS(th) = 1.0–2.0 V) enables direct drive from 3.3 V or 5 V microcontrollers without level-shifting circuitry.

Designed for through-hole mounting, the IPAK package provides enhanced thermal performance over standard TO-92 while maintaining mechanical robustness for industrial environments. The integrated body diode supports freewheeling in inductive loads, with specified reverse recovery charge (Q_rr = 0.33–0.65 μC) and peak dI/dt capability (≤90 A/μs).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

IRLU014 uses the IPAK (TO-251AA) through-hole package with three terminals: Gate (G), Drain (D), and Source (S). The drain tab is internally connected to the die substrate and serves as the primary heat path; the package is designed for vertical mounting with lead-forming per JEDEC outline.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar N-channel logic-level MOSFET applications.

Compared with IRLU014, IRLR014PbF offers identical silicon performance but demands SMT infrastructure and yields higher junction temperature in open-air conditions, while SiHLU014-GE3 delivers drop-in environmental compliance with no electrical or thermal trade-offs.

Availability

IRLU014 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, DC-DC converter synchronous rectification, and LED constant-current driver applications requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for IRLU014 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

Vishay Siliconix is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in high-reliability MOSFETs, diodes, and optoelectronics for industrial, automotive, and computing markets.

The IRLU014 belongs to Vishay's logic-level TrenchFET® power MOSFET product line, engineered for high-efficiency switching in space- and thermally-constrained 3.3 V/5 V control systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous drain current for IRLU014 at 100 °C case temperature?

The IRLU014 supports 4.9 A continuous drain current at T_C = 100 °C, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This value reflects thermal derating from the 7.7 A rating at 25 °C and must be applied when designing for enclosed enclosures or high ambient temperatures. The IRLU014's R_thJA of 50 °C/W on a 1" FR-4 PCB allows accurate junction temperature estimation using P_D = I_D² × R_DS(on).

Does IRLU014 require a gate driver IC when driven by a 3.3 V microcontroller?

No, the IRLU014 does not require a gate driver IC when driven by a 3.3 V microcontroller. Its gate threshold voltage range (1.0–2.0 V) and guaranteed R_DS(on) at V_GS = 4 V confirm full enhancement at 3.3 V logic levels. The IRLU014's low Q_g (8.4 nC) further ensures minimal drive strength requirements - typical 20 mA GPIO pins can switch it effectively at ≤100 kHz.

What is the avalanche energy rating of IRLU014 and how is it tested?

The IRLU014 has a single-pulse avalanche energy rating of 27.4 mJ, measured under conditions of V_DD = 25 V, starting T_J = 25 °C, L = 924 μH, R_g = 25 Ω, and I_AS = 7.7 A per Figure 12. This rating validates the IRLU014's ability to absorb inductive energy during unclamped switching events - critical for relay coil snubbing, solenoid control, and motor phase commutation where voltage spikes exceed V_DS.

How does the IPAK (TO-251) package of IRLU014 compare thermally to the DPAK (TO-252) variant?

The IRLU014 in IPAK (TO-251) and its DPAK (TO-252) counterpart IRLR014 share identical R_thJC = 5.0 °C/W, meaning both transfer heat equally well from junction to case. However, the IRLU014's R_thJA is 50 °C/W on a 1" PCB, versus 110 °C/W for the IRLR014 in free air - confirming the IRLU014's superior PCB-mounted thermal performance due to through-hole mechanical anchoring and copper fill optimization.

Is IRLU014 suitable for use in linear regulation applications?

The IRLU014 can operate in linear mode but is not optimized for it. Its Safe Operating Area (SOA) curve (Figure 7) shows limited DC capability - at V_DS = 10 V, maximum continuous current drops to ~2.5 A due to thermal limits. For linear regulation, the IRLU014's R_DS(on) tempco (+0.073 V/°C) and SOA constraints require careful derating; dedicated linear MOSFETs or pass transistors are preferred for sustained >1 W dissipation.