STMicroelectronics STPS16L40CT

Overview

STPS16L40CT from STMicroelectronics is a dual center-tap Schottky barrier rectifier optimized for high-frequency switched-mode power supplies and DC-DC converters, featuring 40 V repetitive peak reverse voltage, 16 A average forward current (per device), and low 0.45 V max forward voltage at 125°C - enabling efficient low-voltage, high-current rectification in server VRMs and telecom power modules.

For engineers reviewing the STPS16L40CT datasheet, STPS16L40CT pinout, STPS16L40CT application, or STPS16L40CT equivalent, key selection criteria include its TO-220AB package thermal resistance (R_th(j-c) = 1.3 °C/W per diode), avalanche-rated 4000 W pulse power, and negligible switching losses supporting >100 kHz operation without snubbers.

Technical Context

This dual-diode Schottky rectifier integrates two independent anode-cathode junctions sharing a common cathode terminal (center-tap configuration), enabling synchronous half-wave rectification or dual-output DC-DC topologies. Its low V_F (0.39–0.45 V at 8 A/125°C) and ultra-fast recovery (dV/dt = 10,000 V/µs) eliminate minority-carrier storage delay, making it suitable for zero-voltage-switching (ZVS) resonant converters.

The device is rated for T_j(max) = 150°C with R_th(j-c) = 1.3 °C/W per diode and R_th(c) = 0.3 °C/W coupling resistance between diodes - critical for thermal derating when both diodes operate simultaneously under δ = 0.5 duty cycle.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Supplied in TO-220AB package with isolated mounting tab (non-electrical), this dual Schottky rectifier features three terminals: two anodes (A1, A2) and one shared cathode (K). The center-tap cathode configuration allows single-point grounding in dual-output flyback or forward converters.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual Schottky rectifier applications.

Compared with STPS16H40CT and SS16H, the STPS16L40CT uniquely combines low V_F, center-tap topology, and TO-220AB thermal performance - making it irreplaceable in space-constrained dual-output converters requiring <0.45 V forward drop and <1.3 °C/W junction-to-case resistance.

Availability

STPS16L40CT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server VRMs, telecom DC-DC converters, and industrial motor drive freewheeling applications requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for STPS16L40CT 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing analog, power, microcontroller, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STPS series targets high-efficiency power conversion, with the STPS16L40CT specifically engineered for low-voltage, high-current Schottky rectification in high-frequency SMPS and DC-DC topologies.

FAQ

What is the maximum junction temperature and how does it affect thermal design?

The STPS16L40CT has a maximum operating junction temperature of 150°C. With R_th(j-c) = 1.3 °C/W per diode, a 30 W dissipation requires ≤40°C case-to-ambient rise - meaning thermal design must ensure heatsink interface resistance stays below 0.5 °C/W to avoid exceeding T_j under full load at 70°C ambient.

Can this device replace a standard silicon rectifier in an existing 40 V design?

Yes, provided the circuit operates below 150°C junction temperature and reverse voltage remains ≤40 V. Unlike silicon diodes, the STPS16L40CT has no reverse recovery time, eliminating switching spikes - but its higher reverse leakage (up to 35 mA at 100°C) may require verification in high-impedance bias networks.

Is the TO-220AB package electrically isolated?

No - the TO-220AB mounting tab is internally connected to the cathode (K) terminal. Electrical isolation requires insulating hardware (e.g., shoulder washer and nylon screw) or a separate heatsink mounting strategy to prevent shorting the common cathode to chassis ground.

How is the 16 A average current rating distributed across the two diodes?

The 16 A rating applies to the entire device under δ = 0.5 duty cycle with both diodes conducting equally. Each diode handles 8 A average current individually - confirmed by the "IF(AV) Per diode 8 A" specification and thermal coupling data showing ∆T_j(diode1) = P(diode1) × 1.3 + P(diode2) × 0.3.