STMicroelectronics TIP29A
- Part No.:
- TIP29A
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-220-3
- Datasheet:
-
TIP29A.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 60V 1A TO-220
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,166
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Product details
Overview
TIP29A from STMicroelectronics is an NPN silicon power transistor in TO-220 package, designed for linear and switching applications with 60 V VCEO, 1 A continuous collector current, and low 0.7 V VCE(sat) at IC = 1 A / IB = 125 mA. It delivers high DC current gain (hFE ≥ 40 at IC = 0.2 A) and operates up to 150 °C junction temperature, commonly used in audio amplifier output stages and DC-DC converter switches.
For engineers reviewing the TIP29A datasheet, TIP29A pinout, TIP29A application, or TIP29A equivalent, key selection criteria include saturation voltage under 1 A load, safe operating area at 60 V, thermal performance in TO-220 mounting, and compatibility with complementary PNP TIP30A in push-pull configurations.
Technical Context
The TIP29A employs Planar "Base Island" layout to achieve high hFE and low VCE(sat), enabling efficient operation in Class AB audio amplifiers and resistive-load switching circuits. Its 60 V VCEO and 30 W total dissipation at Tc ≤ 25°C support medium-voltage, medium-current linear regulation and PWM-driven loads.
It is electrically characterized at Tcase = 25°C with defined test conditions: hFE measured at VCE = 4 V, VCE(sat) tested at IC = 1 A / IB = 125 mA, and VCEO(sus) specified at IC = 30 mA with pulsed 300 ms duration and ≥1.5% duty cycle.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | 60 V - Maximum safe collector-emitter voltage with base open; defines upper rail limit in amplifier or switch designs |
| IC (continuous) | 1 A - Continuous collector current rating; sets maximum DC load current without derating |
| VCE(sat) | 0.7 V @ IC=1 A, IB=125 mA - Low saturation voltage minimizes conduction loss and heatsink requirements |
| hFE | 40–75 @ IC=0.2 A - High DC current gain enables direct drive from logic-level or op-amp outputs |
| PTOT | 30 W @ Tc ≤ 25°C - Total power dissipation capability with proper heatsinking; critical for thermal design margin |
| TJ(max) | 150 °C - Maximum junction temperature; determines allowable thermal resistance from junction to case/ambient |
Pinout & Package
Package: TO-220 (3-lead, straight lead, insulated tab). Mounting surface is electrically connected to collector (Pin 2).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Emitter) | Current sink terminal | Reference node for base drive; connects to ground or low-side return path |
| 2 (Collector) | Current source terminal | Electrically tied to metal tab; must be isolated from heatsink unless common-collector configuration used |
| 3 (Base) | Control input | Receives forward bias current to saturate or linearly bias transistor; requires current-limiting resistor |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Planar "Base Island" structure | Enables consistent hFE and low VCE(sat) across production lots for predictable gain matching in push-pull pairs |
| Low VCE(sat) (0.7 V) | Reduces power loss by >30% vs. legacy power transistors at 1 A, easing thermal management in compact enclosures |
| ECOPACK® lead-free packaging | Complies with RoHS and JEDEC JESD97; second-level interconnect marked on package for traceable assembly compliance |
| 150 °C max junction temperature | Supports operation in industrial environments with ambient temperatures up to 85 °C when properly heatsinked |
Applications
| Audio Power Amplifier Output Stage | DC-DC Converter Switch |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Final output stage in 10–20 W Class AB audio amplifiers driving 4–8 Ω speakers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN power switch delivering peak current up to 1.5 A into reactive load with minimal crossover distortion. Use Value: High hFE allows direct drive from driver transistors; low VCE(sat) preserves headroom and reduces heat generation during sustained bass output. | Use Scenario: Main switching element in 12 V input, 5 V/2 A buck converter operating at 20–100 kHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Medium-speed power switch controlling energy transfer through inductor; driven by PWM controller via base resistor network. Use Value: Fast resistive-load switching time (typ. <1 µs rise/fall per Fig. 7) supports stable operation at 100 kHz with low switching loss. |
| Linear Voltage Regulator Pass Element | Relay / Solenoid Driver |
Use Scenario: Series pass transistor in adjustable 3–15 V, 1 A linear regulator using LM317 feedback network. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Continuously biased in active region to dissipate excess voltage as heat; thermally coupled to heatsink. Use Value: 30 W PTOT and 150 °C TJ(max) enable reliable operation at 10 V dropout × 1 A = 10 W dissipation with standard TO-220 heatsink. | Use Scenario: Driving 12 V, 500 mA automotive relay coil or 24 V solenoid valve in industrial control panels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Saturated switch turning coil on/off; flyback diode required across inductive load. Use Value: 60 V VCEO safely clamps inductive kickback spikes; 3 A ICM handles surge during coil energization. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN power transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MJE2955G | PNP complement; same TO-220 package but opposite polarity; VCEO = 60 V, hFE = 20–70 | Used only in complementary pairs (e.g., with TIP29A in push-pull); not a direct replacement | Select when building symmetrical output stages requiring matched NPN/PNP characteristics |
| TIP31A | Same family, higher VCEO = 60 V (same), but higher IC = 3 A and PTOT = 40 W; hFE min = 10 @ IC = 3 A | Better suited for higher-current switching where gain at full load matters less than SOA | Choose for new designs needing headroom beyond 1 A continuous; verify base drive capability for 3 A IC |
Compared with TIP29A, MJE2955G serves complementary roles rather than substitution, while TIP31A offers higher current capacity at the cost of reduced hFE linearity-making TIP29A preferable for precision linear applications below 1 A.
Availability
TIP29A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio amplifier design, DC-DC converter development, and industrial relay control requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.
Supply support for TIP29A 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 TIP29A belongs to ST's legacy bipolar power transistor product line, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, medium-power linear and switching applications where reliability, thermal robustness, and manufacturability are prioritized over ultra-high frequency or digital integration.
FAQ
Is TIP29A RoHS-compliant?
Yes, TIP29A is manufactured in ECOPACK® packaging with lead-free second-level interconnect, compliant with EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. The package marking and inner box label indicate the JEDEC JESD97-compliant eco-category, and soldering profiles follow ST's published lead-free reflow guidelines.
What is the thermal resistance RθJC for TIP29A?
The junction-to-case thermal resistance (RθJC) for TIP29A in TO-220 package is 1.7 °C/W, measured under standard mounting conditions with thermal compound and 1.5 N·m screw torque. This value is derived from ST's mechanical data sheet and verified in thermal characterization reports for the TO-220 outline.
Can TIP29A replace TIP31A in existing designs?
No-TIP29A has lower continuous current rating (1 A vs. 3 A) and lower peak current (3 A vs. 9 A), making it unsuitable as a drop-in replacement where TIP31A operates near its limits. Substitution requires verifying SOA, gain, and thermal margins; TIP29A may be used only in designs with ≤1 A average collector current and adequate heatsinking.
Does TIP29A require a base resistor in switching applications?
Yes, a series base resistor is mandatory to limit IB and ensure saturation. For IC = 1 A and minimum hFE = 40, IB ≥ 25 mA is needed; with VBE ≈ 1.3 V and 5 V drive, a 150 Ω resistor provides ~25 mA. Undriven base risks thermal runaway or incomplete saturation.
TIP29A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-3
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Transistor Type:
- NPN
- Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):
- 1 A
- Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):
- 60 V
- Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:
- 700mV @ 125mA, 1A
- Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):
- 300µA
- DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:
- 15 @ 1A, 4V
- Power - Max:
- 2 W
- Frequency - Transition:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220
TIP29A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TIP29A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TIP29A 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 TIP29A reliable?
The price and inventory of TIP29A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TIP29A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TIP29A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TIP29A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TIP29A?
TIP29A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TIP29A 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 TIP29A?
For technical support, including TIP29A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TIP29A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TIP29A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TIP29A 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 TIP29A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TIP29A?
All TIP29A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TIP29A, 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 TIP29A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TIP29A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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