NXP Semiconductors MPSA14,116

Overview

MPSA14,116 from Nexperia (formerly Philips Semiconductors) is an NPN Darlington transistor in TO-92 (SOT54) package, designed for high-gain switching and amplification with IC = 500 mA, VCEO = 30 V, and hFE ≥ 10000 at IC = 10 mA. It serves as the NPN complement to the PNP MPSA64 in relay drivers, lamp controllers, and low-speed logic interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MPSA14,116 datasheet, MPSA14,116 pinout, MPSA14,116 application, or MPSA14,116 equivalent, key selection criteria include DC current gain stability across 10–100 mA collector loads, saturation voltage under base drive of 0.1 mA, thermal resistance (Rth j-a = 250 K/W), and compatibility with FR4 PCB mounting without heatsinking.

Technical Context

The MPSA14,116 implements a monolithic NPN Darlington pair with integrated base-emitter resistor network absent - requiring external base bias control. Its architecture delivers high hFE (10,000–20,000) while maintaining VCEsat ≤ 1.5 V at IC = 100 mA/IB = 0.1 mA and fT = 125 MHz at IC = 100 mA/VCE = 5 V.

It operates within −65 °C to +150 °C ambient range, with junction temperature limited to 150 °C and total power dissipation capped at 500 mW on FR4 board. Electrical isolation is defined by VCEO = 30 V, VCBO = 30 V, and VEBO = 5 V - confirming suitability for low-voltage industrial control nodes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TO-92 (SOT54) plastic through-hole package: 5.2 mm height, 4.8 mm body width, 2.54 mm lead pitch, 3 leads. Mold compound meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MMBT5401,135 and ULN2003AD1013TR, the MPSA14,116 offers superior DC current gain in a compact through-hole package ideal for discrete high-gain amplification and low-volume switching - where pin-level control, thermal headroom, and legacy compatibility outweigh integration benefits.

Availability

MPSA14,116 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for relay driver circuits, lamp control modules, logic-level interface designs, and industrial sensor signal conditioning requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for MPSA14,116 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

Nexperia - formerly Philips Semiconductors - is a global leader in discrete, logic, and MOSFET solutions, headquartered in Nijmegen, Netherlands, with manufacturing in Asia and Europe.

The MPSA14,116 belongs to Nexperia's legacy bipolar transistor portfolio, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability industrial control and electro-mechanical interfacing applications where gain, ruggedness, and TO-92 compatibility are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current for the MPSA14,116?

The MPSA14,116 supports a maximum DC collector current of 500 mA under standard FR4 PCB mounting conditions at Tamb ≤ 25 °C. Derating is required above 25 °C ambient per its thermal resistance of 250 K/W - e.g., max IC drops to ~350 mA at 50 °C ambient. This rating ensures reliable operation in relay and lamp driver applications without forced cooling.

Does the MPSA14,116 have an integrated base resistor?

No, the MPSA14,116 does not include an integrated base resistor. It is a bare Darlington pair requiring external base current limiting - typically via a series resistor between the control source and pin 2 (base). This design grants full flexibility in setting gain and switching speed but mandates careful base drive design to avoid overcurrent.

Can the MPSA14,116 replace the MPSA13 in existing designs?

The MPSA14,116 is not a direct replacement for the MPSA13: both are NPN Darlingtons in TO-92, but the MPSA13 specifies hFE ≥ 1000 (not 10000) and VCEO = 30 V. The MPSA14,116's tenfold higher gain alters base drive requirements and may cause unintended saturation or slower turn-off - redesign verification is essential before substitution.

What is the typical transition frequency (fT) of the MPSA14,116?

The MPSA14,116 has a typical transition frequency fT of 125 MHz, measured at IC = 100 mA and VCE = 5 V. This enables use in audio amplification and low-speed pulse applications, though its Darlington structure limits switching speed compared to single transistors - turn-on/turn-off times are in the microsecond range, not nanosecond.

Is the MPSA14,116 RoHS compliant and halogen-free?

Yes, the MPSA14,116 manufactured by Nexperia meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and is halogen-free per IEC 61249-2-21. The TO-92 package uses lead-free matte tin plating and environmentally compliant molding compound - confirmed in Nexperia's official product change notices and material declarations.