onsemi MPSA14RLRP

Overview

MPSA14RLRP from onsemi is an NPN silicon Darlington transistor in TO-92 package, rated for 30 V_CE, 500 mA continuous collector current, and 625 mW power dissipation at 25°C ambient. It delivers DC current gain (h_FE) of 10,000–20,000 at I_C = 100 mA and V_CE = 5 V, with V_CE(sat) ≤ 1.5 V and V_BE(on) ≤ 2.0 V - used in low-speed switching, relay drivers, and signal amplification stages where high current gain and moderate voltage handling are required.

For engineers reviewing the MPSA14RLRP datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include verified Darlington configuration, TO-92 mechanical compatibility, guaranteed h_FE ≥ 10,000 at 100 mA, thermal resistance R_JA = 200°C/mW, and noise performance validated down to 10 Hz–15.7 kHz bandwidth.

Technical Context

The MPSA14RLRP implements a monolithic NPN Darlington pair with integrated base-emitter resistor network absent - requiring external base drive control. Its high h_FE enables microampere-level base current to switch 100+ mA loads, while its 30 V_CE rating supports operation across 5–24 V logic-controlled systems.

Thermal design relies on R_JC = 83.3°C/mW and R_JA = 200°C/mW, with derating of 5.0 mW/°C above 25°C ambient. Safe operating area (SOA) is defined up to 500 mA and 30 V in single-pulse mode, limited by second breakdown at higher V_CE/I_C combinations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-92 (Case 29-11, Style 1), epoxy-molded plastic with 3-pin vertical lead configuration. Lead finish is matte tin; Pb-free version available as MPSA14RLRPG.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPSA14RLRA and ULN2003A, the MPSA14RLRP offers lowest unit cost and smallest footprint for single-switch applications, while avoiding over-engineering from array integration or reel-specific logistics constraints.

Availability

MPSA14RLRP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for relay drivers, LED power switching, DC motor control, and sensor interface circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for MPSA14RLRP 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

onsemi (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier focused on energy-efficient electronics, delivering silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and IoT applications.

The MPSA13/MPSA14 family was designed as a preferred general-purpose Darlington transistor line for cost-sensitive, high-reliability linear and switching applications in legacy and new industrial designs.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for MPSA14RLRP?

The MPSA14RLRP is rated for 500 mAdc continuous collector current at T_A = 25°C. Derating applies above 25°C ambient at 5.0 mW/°C, and actual achievable current depends on PCB copper area, airflow, and thermal interface. At 70°C ambient, maximum continuous I_C drops to approximately 325 mA based on its 625 mW P_D rating and thermal resistance.

Does MPSA14RLRP have built-in base resistors?

No, the MPSA14RLRP does not include internal base resistors. It is a bare Darlington transistor requiring an external current-limiting resistor between the driving source and pin 2 (base) to prevent excessive base current and ensure reliable saturation. This distinguishes it from integrated driver arrays like ULN2003A, which embed base resistors and flyback diodes.

What is the typical DC current gain (h_FE) of MPSA14RLRP at 10 mA collector current?

At I_C = 10 mA and V_CE = 5.0 V, the MPSA14RLRP exhibits h_FE of 10,000–20,000 - significantly higher than standard NPN transistors. This high gain allows microcontroller GPIO pins to directly drive the base with minimal current (e.g., ~1 µA base current suffices for 10 mA collector load), reducing power consumption in battery-operated systems.

Can MPSA14RLRP be used in linear amplifier configurations?

Yes, the MPSA14RLRP can operate in linear mode, particularly as an emitter-follower buffer or low-frequency voltage amplifier. Its f_T of 125 MHz and low 1/f noise support audio-band applications up to ~20 kHz. However, thermal stability must be managed carefully due to its relatively high V_BE(on) (~2.0 V) and power dissipation limits - avoid sustained operation near P_D max in analog gain stages.

Is MPSA14RLRP RoHS-compliant and halogen-free?

Yes, the MPSA14RLRP is RoHS-compliant and halogen-free. The "G" suffix (e.g., MPSA14RLRPG) explicitly denotes Pb-free construction, but even the standard MPSA14RLRP meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements per onsemi's documentation. Full material declarations and test reports are available through onsemi's compliance portal upon request.