Nexperia USA Inc. PXTA42F

Overview

PXTA42F from Nexperia is a 300 V, 100 mA NPN high-voltage transistor in SOT89 (SC-62) surface-mount package, designed for switching applications requiring high breakdown voltage and medium power handling. It delivers DC current gain (h_FE) ≥40 at I_C = 30 mA, V_CE = 10 V, and supports peak collector current up to 200 mA. Used in electronic ballasts, LED chain drivers, and SMPS primary-side switching.

For engineers reviewing the PXTA42F datasheet, PXTA42F pinout, PXTA42F application, or PXTA42F equivalent, key selection criteria include V_CEO = 300 V, I_C = 100 mA continuous, SOT89 thermal resistance R_th(j-sp) = 16 K/W, and verified suitability for fluorescent lighting ballast and HID front-lighting circuits.

Technical Context

This NPN bipolar junction transistor operates as a high-voltage switch with open-base V_CEO and V_CBO both rated at 300 V, enabling reliable operation in off-line AC/DC topologies. Its low V_CE(sat) ≤ 500 mV at I_C = 20 mA / I_B = 2 mA ensures minimal conduction loss during saturation.

Thermal performance is defined for mounting on FR4 PCB with 6 cm² collector pad: R_th(j-a) = 96 K/W (free air), R_th(j-sp) = 16 K/W. Transition frequency f_T = 50 MHz at V_CE = 20 V, I_C = 10 mA confirms usable bandwidth for moderate-speed switching.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT89 (SC-62) plastic surface-mount package: 3 leads, 1.5 mm pitch, 4.5 mm × 2.5 mm × 1.5 mm body; collector tab forms thermal pad (pin 2).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BCX56-16 and MJD122, PXTA42F uniquely balances 300 V blocking, SOT89 mountability, and 100 mA switching in a single compact solution-making it irreplaceable in off-line LED drivers and electronic ballasts where voltage margin and board space are critical.

Availability

PXTA42F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electronic ballasts, LED chain drivers, and Switch Mode Power Supplies requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for PXTA42F 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 is a global semiconductor expert focused on high-volume, high-reliability discrete and logic devices, headquartered in Nijmegen, Netherlands.

PXTA42F belongs to Nexperia's high-voltage bipolar transistor family, engineered specifically for energy-efficient lighting and power conversion systems operating directly from rectified AC mains.

FAQ

Is PXTA42F automotive-qualified?

No. Per Nexperia's 2024 revision history, PXTA42F is explicitly designated as non-automotive qualified. It lacks AEC-Q101 stress testing and automotive-grade process controls. For automotive lighting or body electronics, use Nexperia's PXTA42-Q series or equivalent automotive-qualified alternatives.

What is the maximum allowable PCB copper area for optimal thermal performance?

For R_th(j-a) = 96 K/W and R_th(j-sp) = 16 K/W, Nexperia specifies a 6 cm² single-sided FR4 copper pad under the collector tab. This area must be tin-plated and unbroken; splitting or reducing it increases thermal resistance by ≥25% per 2 cm² reduction.

Can PXTA42F replace PXTA42 in existing designs?

Yes-PXTA42F is a form-, fit-, and function-compatible variant of PXTA42 with identical electrical specs, pinout, and package. The "F" suffix denotes updated manufacturing site and traceability coding (%1D marking), not functional change. No redesign or requalification is needed.

Does PXTA42F require a base resistor in switching applications?

Yes. With h_FE ≥40 at I_C = 30 mA, a base current of ≥0.75 mA is required for full saturation. A 4.7 kΩ resistor from 5 V logic yields ~1 mA I_B, ensuring robust turn-on while limiting base power dissipation to <5 mW.