onsemi TIP117
- Part No.:
- TIP117
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-220-3
- Datasheet:
-
TIP117.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS PNP DARL 100V 2A TO-220
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,183
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Product details
Overview
TIP117 from onsemi is a PNP silicon Darlington transistor in TO-220AB package, rated for 100 VCEO(sus), 2.0 A continuous collector current, and 50 W power dissipation at TC = 25°C, designed for general-purpose amplifier and low-speed switching applications such as linear power supplies and motor control drivers.
For engineers reviewing the TIP117 datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection considerations include its built-in base-emitter shunt resistors, high DC current gain (hFE = 2500 typ. @ IC = 1.0 A), low saturation voltage (VCE(sat) ≤ 2.5 V @ IC = 2.0 A), and thermal resistance (RJC = 2.5 °C/W).
Technical Context
The TIP117 implements a monolithic Darlington pair with integrated ~8.0 kΩ base-emitter shunt resistors, enabling simplified biasing and improved turn-off behavior. Its safe operating area (SOA) is limited by secondary breakdown at high VCE and thermally at high case temperatures, with pulse operation supported up to 150°C junction temperature.
Electrical characteristics are specified across –65°C to +150°C operating range, with VCEO(sus) = 100 V (min) at IC = 30 mA and IB = 0, ICEO ≤ 2.0 mA at VCE = 50 V, and Cob = 200 pF at VCB = 10 V - confirming suitability for medium-voltage, medium-current linear and switching roles where robustness against inductive transients matters.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO(sus) | 100 V min - sustains 100 V between collector and emitter under switching stress without breakdown, enabling use in 80–100 V rail systems. |
| IC (continuous) | 2.0 A - supports load currents up to 2 A in linear regulators or relay drivers without external heat sinking beyond minimal heatsink requirements. |
| PD @ TC = 25°C | 50 W - delivers substantial power-handling capability when mounted on a heatsink maintaining case temperature at 25°C. |
| hFE | 2500 typ. @ IC = 1.0 A - reduces required base drive current to ~0.4 mA for 1 A output, easing microcontroller GPIO or logic-level driver interface. |
| VCE(sat) | 2.5 V max @ IC = 2.0 A, IB = 8.0 mA - limits conduction loss to ≤5 W at full load, critical for thermal management in linear pass elements. |
| RJC | 2.5 °C/W - enables predictable junction-to-case thermal path; 20°C rise per 8 W dissipated, simplifying heatsink sizing. |
Pinout & Package
Package: TO-220AB (Case 221A, Style 1), 3-terminal variant with dual collector connection (pins 2 and 4 electrically tied internally). Mounting tab is collector-connected and electrically active.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Base | Control input node; accepts low-current drive due to Darlington gain; internal ~8.0 kΩ shunt resistor pulls base toward emitter for reliable turn-off. |
| 2 | Collector | Main high-current output terminal; connected to mounting tab; must be isolated from heatsink unless circuit design permits common-collector configuration. |
| 3 | Emitter | Power return path; referenced to system ground or negative rail in PNP configurations; carries full load current. |
| 4 | Collector | Second collector terminal, internally bonded to pin 2; provides mechanical stability and enhanced current-carrying capacity via parallel connection. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Monolithic Darlington structure | Integrates two PNP transistors and base-emitter shunt resistors on one die, eliminating external component count and improving reliability over discrete pairs. |
| High VCEO(sus) rating | 100 V minimum ensures robustness in 72–96 V industrial DC systems and unregulated transformer-rectifier supplies without snubbing. |
| Built-in base-emitter shunt resistors | ~8.0 kΩ resistor ensures rapid turn-off by discharging stored base charge, reducing storage time and preventing latch-up in inductive loads. |
| Thermally optimized package | TO-220AB with RJC = 2.5 °C/W allows direct bolt-down heatsinking, supporting continuous 2 A operation with modest thermal interface materials. |
Applications
| Linear Voltage Regulator Pass Element | DC Motor Directional Control (H-Bridge Low-Side) |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Used as the series pass transistor in adjustable linear regulators delivering up to 2 A at 5–24 V output from higher unregulated inputs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PNP Darlington acts as variable resistor controlled by error amplifier feedback loop; handles full load current and dissipates excess voltage as heat. Use Value: High hFE minimizes base drive burden on op-amp error amplifier; 100 V VCEO(sus) accommodates 36 V input rails with margin; 50 W rating supports transient overload handling. |
Use Scenario: Employed in the low-side leg of an H-bridge driving 12–24 V brushed DC motors up to 1.5 A average current. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Switches motor current path to ground; operates in saturation during ON state and cutoff during OFF state; paired with NPN complement (e.g., TIP110) for full bridge. Use Value: Low VCE(sat) reduces conduction losses and self-heating; built-in shunt resistor ensures fast turn-off to prevent shoot-through; TO-220 mechanical robustness withstands vibration in automotive/motor control environments. |
| Relay and Solenoid Driver | Unregulated Power Supply Output Stage |
|
Use Scenario: Drives 12 V or 24 V electromagnetic relays and solenoids requiring 100–800 mA coil current in industrial PLC I/O modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as saturated switch turning coil current ON/OFF; absorbs inductive kickback via external flyback diode. Use Value: 2.0 A IC rating covers peak inrush current of large solenoids; 100 V VCEO(sus) safely clamps flyback spikes up to 80 V; monolithic construction avoids mismatch issues seen in discrete Darlington assemblies. |
Use Scenario: Serves as output transistor in transformer-based unregulated AC/DC supplies feeding analog circuits or battery chargers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Functions as constant-current sink or series regulator element; dissipates ripple and dropout voltage while delivering stable DC current. Use Value: 50 W power rating supports >10 W continuous dissipation with proper heatsinking; wide –65°C to +150°C operating range ensures reliability in enclosed enclosures; Pb-free option (TIP117G) meets RoHS compliance requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP Darlington transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MJE172 | Lower VCEO = 60 V, lower hFE = 500–1000, TO-126 package, no built-in shunt resistors. | Suitable only for ≤48 V systems; requires external base resistor network for reliable turn-off; less suited for inductive loads without added components. | Select MJE172 only when cost sensitivity outweighs performance needs and voltage requirements are ≤60 V. |
| TIP127 | Same TO-220AB package, identical pinout, VCEO(sus) = 100 V, but hFE = 1000 min (vs. 2500 typ. for TIP117), higher VCE(sat) = 4.0 V max. | Acceptable for same voltage/current class but demands higher base drive and generates more heat at full load; lacks same level of built-in turn-off assurance. | Choose TIP127 if legacy compatibility or second-source availability is prioritized over optimal gain and saturation performance. |
Compared with MJE172 and TIP127, the TIP117 offers superior DC gain and integrated turn-off assistance-reducing external component count and improving switching fidelity-while maintaining identical footprint and voltage capability, making it the preferred choice for new designs demanding efficiency and simplicity in medium-power PNP switching.
Availability
TIP117 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for linear voltage regulation, relay/solenoid driving, DC motor control, and unregulated power supply output stages requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.
Supply support for TIP117 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
onsemi is a global semiconductor manufacturer specializing in energy-efficient, high-performance silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and IoT applications.
The TIP117 belongs to onsemi's plastic medium-power complementary silicon transistor family, engineered for robust, cost-effective amplification and low-speed switching in industrial controls, power management, and electromechanical interfaces.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous collector current rating for the TIP117?
The TIP117 has a maximum continuous collector current (IC) rating of 2.0 A at TC = 25°C. This rating assumes adequate heatsinking to maintain case temperature at or below 25°C; derating applies above that temperature at 0.4 W/°C. At ambient temperature (TA = 25°C), the rating drops to 2.0 W due to higher thermal resistance to ambient (RJA = 62.5 °C/W), so forced-air cooling or heatsinking is essential for full-load operation. The TIP117 is not intended for sustained 2 A operation without thermal management.
Does the TIP117 have built-in base-emitter resistors, and what is their function?
Yes, the TIP117 features monolithically integrated base-emitter shunt resistors (~8.0 kΩ) that provide automatic turn-off biasing. These resistors discharge stored base charge rapidly during turn-off, reducing storage time and preventing unintended conduction in inductive load applications. This eliminates the need for external pull-down resistors in most switching circuits, simplifying PCB layout and improving reliability compared to discrete Darlington configurations. The TIP117's internal resistor network is a defining feature confirmed in the onsemi datasheet schematic and electrical specifications.
What is the collector-emitter sustaining voltage (VCEO(sus)) specification for the TIP117, and how does it differ from VCEO?
The TIP117 specifies VCEO(sus) = 100 V (minimum) at IC = 30 mA and IB = 0 - a pulsed, non-repetitive rating reflecting the device's ability to sustain voltage during transient overvoltage events like inductive kickback. This differs from static VCEO, which is not separately listed but aligns with the 100 V rating shown in the Maximum Ratings table. The "(sus)" designation indicates this is a ruggedness parameter validated under specific test conditions (pulse width 300 µs, duty cycle 2%), making it directly relevant for relay, solenoid, and motor driver applications where voltage spikes occur. The TIP117's 100 V rating exceeds those of TIP115 (60 V) and TIP116 (80 V), confirming its role in higher-voltage systems.
Can the TIP117 be used as a direct replacement for the TIP127 in existing designs?
The TIP117 and TIP127 share identical TO-220AB package, pinout (Style 1), and 100 V VCEO(sus) rating, enabling mechanical and socket compatibility. However, they are not functionally interchangeable without validation: the TIP117 offers higher typical hFE (2500 vs. 1000 min for TIP127) and lower VCE(sat) (2.5 V max vs. 4.0 V max), altering base drive requirements and thermal behavior. Circuits designed for TIP127's lower gain may overdrive the TIP117's base, risking excessive power dissipation. Therefore, while the TIP117 can replace TIP127 in many cases, re-evaluation of base resistor values and thermal margins is required before substitution in the TIP117.
Is the TIP117 still in active production, and what is the status of its Pb-free version?
The standard TIP117 (non-G suffix) is marked as discontinued in the onsemi datasheet (Rev. 9, June 2024), with explicit note: "DISCONTINUED: These devices are not recommended for new design." The Pb-free version, TIP117G, remains active and available in TO-220 packaging with 50 units per rail shipping. onsemi confirms TIP117G meets RoHS requirements and retains identical electrical and thermal specifications. For new designs, Aetrix Electronics recommends specifying TIP117G to ensure long-term supply continuity and regulatory compliance - the TIP117G is the only supported variant for production use today.
TIP117 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-3
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Transistor Type:
- PNP - Darlington
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 2 A
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 100 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 2.5V @ 8mA, 2A
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 2mA
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 1000 @ 1A, 4V
- Power - Max:
- 2 W
- Frequency - Transition:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220
TIP117 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TIP117 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TIP117 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for TIP117 reliable?
The price and inventory of TIP117 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TIP117 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TIP117?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TIP117 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TIP117?
TIP117 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TIP117 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for TIP117?
For technical support, including TIP117 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TIP117 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TIP117 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TIP117 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that TIP117 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TIP117?
All TIP117 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TIP117, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The TIP117 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TIP117:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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