Diodes Incorporated SF163

Overview

SF163 from ON Semiconductor is a 150 V, 16 A super-fast recovery axial-lead rectifier diode in TO-220AB package, featuring 35 ns reverse recovery time, 0.975 V forward voltage at 8.0 A, and 2 K/W junction-to-case thermal resistance - used in high-frequency AC/DC power supplies and switching converters.

For engineers reviewing the SF163 datasheet, SF163 pinout, SF163 application, or SF163 equivalent, key selection criteria include peak repetitive reverse voltage (150 V), average forward current rating (16 A), ultrafast switching performance (<35 ns t_rr), low leakage (10 µA @ 25°C), and thermal capability for conduction-limited designs.

Technical Context

The SF163 operates as a single-phase, half-wave rectifier optimized for 200 kHz power conversion. Its silicon PN junction delivers low forward voltage drop (0.975 V @ 8 A) and minimal stored charge, enabling efficient operation under inductive or resistive loads at 60 Hz and higher frequencies.

Reverse recovery is characterized at IF = 0.5 A, IR = 1.0 A, IRR = 0.25 A, yielding t_rr ≤ 35 ns. Junction capacitance is 75 pF at 4.0 V reverse bias and 1.0 MHz, supporting stable high-frequency snubberless design in compact SMPS layouts.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TO-220AB package with three axial leads: Cathode (marked by color band), Anode, and case-connected tab (electrically tied to cathode). Mounting position unrestricted; UL 94V-0 molded plastic housing.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar super-fast recovery rectifier applications.

Compared with STTH1602D and MUR1620CT, SF163 offers optimal balance of 150 V rating, 0.975 V V_F, and TO-220AB mechanical compatibility - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained 16 A rectifier upgrades without redesigning heatsink or footprint.

Availability

SF163 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for AC/DC front-end rectification, switch-mode power supply output stages, industrial motor drive snubbers, and uninterruptible power supply charger stages requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for SF163 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

ON Semiconductor is a global semiconductor manufacturer specializing in power management, analog, sensor, and discrete solutions for automotive, industrial, and cloud power applications.

The SF163 belongs to the SF16x super-fast recovery rectifier family, engineered for high-efficiency, high-frequency AC/DC conversion in compact power supplies and motor control systems.

FAQ

Is SF163 suitable for surface-mount assembly?

No. SF163 uses axial-leaded TO-220AB packaging with solderable plated leads per MIL-STD-202 Method 208. It requires through-hole mounting and mechanical retention via the metal tab. Surface-mount variants like DPAK or TO-252 are not functionally identical replacements.

What is the polarity marking convention for SF163?

The cathode is marked by a distinct color band on the body - consistent with industry-standard diode polarity identification. The anode is the unmarked lead. The metal tab is internally connected to the cathode and must be electrically isolated from other circuit nodes unless intentionally grounded.

Can SF163 replace SF162 in an existing design?

Yes, with verification. SF163 shares identical package, thermal specs, and pinout with SF162 but offers higher V_RRM (150 V vs. 100 V) and slightly higher V_F (0.975 V vs. 0.95 V). Ensure system peak reverse voltage remains ≤150 V and thermal margin accommodates the +0.025 V V_F increase.

Does SF163 require forced-air cooling at 16 A continuous current?

No - but heatsinking is mandatory. At I_(AV) = 16 A and T_C = 125°C, junction temperature reaches ~145°C with R_θJC = 2 K/W. A heatsink with ≤1.5 K/W total thermal resistance (including interface) is required for reliable operation at full rated current in still air.