Nexperia USA Inc. PZTA44,115

Overview

PZTA44 from Nexperia is an NPN high-voltage bipolar junction transistor in SOT223 (SC-73) package, rated for 400 V V_CEO, 300 mA I_C, and 1.35 W P_tot at T_amb ≤ 25 °C; used as a switching or linear amplifier in high-voltage telecommunication line interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the PZTA44 datasheet, PZTA44 pinout, PZTA44 application, or PZTA44 equivalent, key selection criteria include V_CEO derating at elevated temperature, thermal resistance to solder point (R_th(j-sp) = 10 K/W), h_FE stability across −55 °C to 150 °C, and SC-73 mounting pad thermal design per FR4 PCB guidelines.

Technical Context

The PZTA44 operates as a single NPN silicon BJT with open-base collector-emitter breakdown of 400 V and collector-base breakdown of 500 V. Its DC current gain (h_FE) ranges from 40–200 depending on I_C (1–50 mA) and ambient temperature, with typical f_T = 20 MHz at V_CE = 10 V, I_C = 10 mA.

It exhibits low saturation voltages-V_CE(sat) ≤ 750 mV at I_C = 50 mA / I_B = 5 mA-and low leakage: I_CBO ≤ 10 µA at T_j = 150 °C. Thermal performance relies on the exposed collector pad (Pin 2 & Pin 4) acting as primary heat path to PCB copper.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT223 (SC-73) surface-mount plastic package with 4 leads, 2.3 mm pitch, 6.5 mm × 3.5 mm × 1.65 mm body; features dual collector terminals (Pins 2 and 4) for enhanced thermal and current handling via large copper pad.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MJD44H11 and BCP56-10, the PZTA44 uniquely balances 400 V capability, SOT223 form factor, and thermal performance for mid-power HV signal and power switching-making it optimal for space-limited telecom and auxiliary power stages where 300 mA/400 V is the design envelope.

Availability

PZTA44 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom line interface circuits, off-line power supply startup stages, and industrial sensor conditioning systems requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for PZTA44 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 essential semiconductors-high-performance, reliable components for automotive, industrial, computing, consumer, and communications markets.

The PZTA44 belongs to Nexperia's high-voltage bipolar transistor product line, engineered specifically for robustness in telecom infrastructure, industrial power supplies, and harsh-environment signal conditioning where voltage endurance and thermal reliability are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable junction temperature for continuous operation of the PZTA44?

The absolute maximum junction temperature (T_j) is 150 °C, as defined in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Operation above this value risks permanent degradation of h_FE, increased leakage, and accelerated failure. Derating curves in Figure 1 show h_FE remains functional down to −55 °C, but thermal design must ensure T_j stays within limits under worst-case ambient and power dissipation conditions.

Can the PZTA44 be used in avalanche mode?

No-the PZTA44 is not rated or characterized for controlled avalanche operation. Its limiting values specify only V_CEO = 400 V and V_CBO = 500 V as absolute maximums under open-base and open-emitter conditions, respectively. Exceeding V_CEO may cause uncontrolled breakdown and device failure; no energy absorption or ruggedness data is provided in the datasheet.

How should the dual collector pins (2 and 4) be connected on the PCB?

Pins 2 and 4 must be connected together externally on the PCB to the same large copper pour or thermal pad. This ensures both internal collector bonds contribute to current conduction and heat transfer. The recommended footprint (Figure 11) specifies a single 6.15 mm × 3.85 mm solder land covering both pins, with solder mask defined to maximize thermal coupling to inner-layer copper planes.

Is the PZTA44 suitable for automotive applications?

No-the revision history explicitly states that the PZTA44 was changed to non-automotive qualification in v.3 (2022). It lacks AEC-Q101 qualification, automotive-grade screening, and guaranteed PPAP documentation. For automotive use, Nexperia offers the PZTA44-Q variant (not this part number), which undergoes additional stress testing and lot traceability per automotive requirements.