NXP Semiconductors MPSA42,116

Overview

MPSA42,116 from NXP Semiconductors is an NPN high-voltage transistor in TO-92 (SOT54) package, rated for 300 V collector-base and collector-emitter voltage, 100 mA DC collector current, and 500 mW power dissipation. It serves as a switching or amplification device in high-voltage signal paths, notably in video output stages and telephony line interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the MPSA42,116 datasheet, MPSA42,116 pinout, MPSA42,116 application, or MPSA42,116 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 300 V breakdown rating, low leakage (≤100 nA ICBO at 200 V), hFE range of 25–40 at 1–30 mA, TO-92 mechanical compatibility, and thermal resistance of 250 K/W on FR4 PCB.

Technical Context

The MPSA42,116 operates as a general-purpose NPN bipolar junction transistor optimized for high-voltage, low-current switching and linear amplification. Its design emphasizes robust voltage handling over speed, with fT = 50 MHz and Cc = 3 pF at 20 V, supporting stable operation in reactive load environments like CRT deflection or telephone ring detection.

It features a fixed three-terminal structure with defined absolute maximum ratings: 300 V VCBO/VCEO, 6 V VEBO, 200 mA ICM, and 150 °C junction temperature. Thermal performance is specified for mounting on standard FR4 PCB, with Rth(j-a) = 250 K/W under natural convection.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-92 (SOT54), plastic single-ended leaded through-hole package with 3 leads; standardized footprint per IEC 60196-2, JEDEC TO-92 outline.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN high-voltage transistor applications.

Compared with BC639,116 and MPSA92,116, the MPSA42,116 uniquely balances 300 V capability with moderate gain and proven reliability in legacy video/telecom designs-neither alternative matches its voltage/gain/leakage trade-off.

Availability

MPSA42,116 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for video output stages, telephone line interface circuits, and professional communication equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for MPSA42,116 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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MPSA42,116 belongs to NXP's legacy discrete transistor product line, designed specifically for high-voltage analog signal conditioning and switching in telecom, broadcast, and industrial instrumentation applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for MPSA42,116?

The MPSA42,116 has a maximum collector-emitter voltage (VCEO) rating of 300 V under open-base conditions. This rating is verified per IEC 60134 absolute maximum limits and applies to continuous DC operation at Tamb ≤ 25 °C. Derating is required above ambient temperatures of 25 °C, and transient spikes must remain within this limit to avoid junction damage.

Is MPSA42,116 pin-compatible with MPSA43,116?

No, MPSA42,116 and MPSA43,116 share the same TO-92 (SOT54) package and pinout (collector-base-emitter on pins 1–2–3), but they differ in voltage rating: MPSA42,116 supports 300 V, while MPSA43,116 is rated for 200 V. Substitution requires verification that 200 V margin suffices for the target circuit's peak stress conditions.

What is the typical DC current gain (hFE) of MPSA42,116 at 10 mA collector current?

At VCE = 10 V and IC = 10 mA, the MPSA42,116 exhibits a DC current gain (hFE) of 40 minimum, per the NXP datasheet. This value is measured under pulsed conditions (tp ≤ 300 µs, δ ≤ 0.02) and remains stable across the 1–30 mA operating range, supporting consistent base drive design in switching applications.

Does MPSA42,116 require a heatsink in standard PCB mounting?

The MPSA42,116 does not require an external heatsink when dissipating ≤200 mW on a standard FR4 PCB, as its specified thermal resistance from junction to ambient (Rth(j-a)) is 250 K/W. For continuous operation above 200 mW, forced airflow or copper pour area expansion is recommended to maintain Tj ≤ 150 °C.

What is the PNP complement to MPSA42,116?

The PNP complement to MPSA42,116 is the MPSA92,116, which shares identical voltage ratings (300 V VCBO/VCEO), TO-92 package, and thermal specifications. Its pinout is mirrored (emitter-base-collector on pins 1–2–3), enabling direct use in complementary circuits such as push-pull amplifiers or level translators where matched HV characteristics are required.