STMicroelectronics TIP29C
- Part No.:
- TIP29C
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- Single Bipolar Transistors
- Package:
- TO-220-3
- Datasheet:
-
TIP29C.pdf
- Description:
- TRANS NPN 100V 1A TO-220
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,507
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Product details
Overview
TIP29C from STMicroelectronics is an NPN silicon power transistor in TO-220 package, designed for linear amplification and switching applications. It features 100 V VCEO, 1 A continuous collector current, 0.7 V VCE(sat) at IC = 1 A / IB = 125 mA, and DC current gain (hFE) of 15–75 at IC = 1 A. It is commonly used in audio output stages and DC motor drivers.
For engineers reviewing the TIP29C datasheet, TIP29C pinout, TIP29C application, or TIP29C equivalent, key selection considerations include saturation voltage under high-current drive, thermal derating above 25°C case temperature, safe operating area (SOA) limits in switching mode, and compatibility with complementary PNP TIP30C in push-pull configurations.
Technical Context
The TIP29C employs Planar technology with "Base Island" layout to achieve low VCE(sat) and high hFE consistency across production lots. Its 100 V VCEO rating supports operation in 48 V industrial bus and 24 V automotive auxiliary circuits without snubbing.
Designed for Class AB audio output stages and resistive-load switching, it exhibits 30 W total dissipation at TC ≤ 25°C but requires heatsinking above 1 W ambient dissipation. Switching time curves confirm turn-on/off times under 1 µs with non-inductive 100 Ω load and 125 mA base drive.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCEO | 100 V - Maximum collector-emitter voltage before breakdown with base open; enables use in 48 V rail systems. |
| IC (continuous) | 1 A - Continuous collector current limit; defines max linear output power before thermal shutdown. |
| VCE(sat) | 0.7 V @ IC=1 A, IB=125 mA - Low saturation voltage reduces conduction loss in switching regulators. |
| hFE | 15–75 @ IC=1 A - Wide DC gain range requires emitter degeneration or feedback for stable biasing. |
| PTOT | 30 W @ TC ≤ 25°C - Requires mechanical heatsink mounting for >2 W ambient dissipation. |
| TJ(max) | 150 °C - Junction temperature limit; dictates thermal resistance budget (RθJC ≈ 0.83 °C/W per datasheet). |
Pinout & Package
TO-220 package with vertical metal tab, 3-pin through-hole configuration. Mounting tab is electrically connected to collector. Standard lead spacing matches JEDEC TO-220 footprint.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (Emitter) | Current sink terminal | Low-impedance path to ground reference; must be routed with minimal trace inductance in switching apps. |
| 2 (Base) | Control input | Requires ≥125 mA drive for full saturation; base resistor must limit IB to avoid secondary breakdown. |
| 3 (Collector) | High-side current source | Connected to heatsink tab; isolation required if heatsink is grounded or shared with other devices. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Planar "Base Island" construction | Enables tight hFE distribution and repeatable VCE(sat) across batches for production line consistency. |
| ECOPACK® lead-free finish | Complies with RoHS and JEDEC JESD97 marking; eliminates Pb-based solder compatibility concerns. |
| 150 °C maximum junction temperature | Supports operation in sealed enclosures up to 85 °C ambient when mounted on 2.5 cm² aluminum heatsink. |
| Low VCE(sat) at high IC | 0.7 V at 1 A reduces power loss by >30% vs. legacy 2N3055 in identical switching duty cycles. |
Applications
| Audio Power Amplifier | DC Motor Driver |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Single-ended Class AB output stage driving 4–8 Ω loudspeakers in consumer audio equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: NPN power switch delivering peak currents up to 1.2 A into reactive loads. Use Value: 0.7 V VCE(sat) minimizes heat generation during sustained bass transients, reducing heatsink size by ~25%. | Use Scenario: H-bridge half-bridge leg controlling bidirectional 24 V DC brushed motors in industrial actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-side NPN switch with fast turn-off (<1 µs) enabling PWM frequencies up to 20 kHz. Use Value: 100 V VCEO withstands inductive kickback without external clamping diodes in 24 V systems. |
| Linear Voltage Regulator | Relay Driver |
Use Scenario: Pass transistor in adjustable 3–30 V, 1 A linear regulator for lab bench supplies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Series pass element dissipating up to 25 W under worst-case dropout conditions. Use Value: 30 W PTOT at TC = 25°C allows stable regulation at 1 A/10 V dropout with forced-air cooling. | Use Scenario: Direct-drive interface between microcontroller GPIO and 12 V/500 mA electromagnetic relay coils. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Saturated switch providing coil current with <100 ns delay from logic edge. Use Value: 15–75 hFE ensures reliable saturation with 5 mA MCU output via 1 kΩ base resistor. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar NPN power transistor applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ON Semiconductor MJE2955G | PNP complement; 60 V VCEO, higher VCE(sat) (1.1 V), lower hFE (20–70) | Not direct replacement; used only in complementary pairs with TIP29C | Select when building symmetrical push-pull output stages requiring matched gain and SOA. |
| STMicroelectronics TIP31C | Same package; 100 V VCEO, 3 A IC, higher PTOT (40 W), VCE(sat) = 1.2 V | Higher current handling but increased conduction loss; requires larger heatsink for same IC | Choose for >1 A continuous loads where thermal margin outweighs efficiency loss. |
Compared with MJE2955G and TIP31C, the TIP29C offers optimal balance of low saturation voltage, moderate current capability, and proven reliability in audio and 24 V industrial switching-making it preferred where thermal management space is constrained and 1 A is sufficient.
Availability
TIP29C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for audio amplifiers, DC motor drivers, linear voltage regulators, and relay interfaces requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle industrial programs.
Supply support for TIP29C 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, specializing in power discrete, analog, microcontrollers, and automotive ICs.
The TIP29C belongs to ST's legacy bipolar power transistor family, engineered for cost-sensitive, high-reliability linear and switching applications in industrial control and audio systems.
FAQ
Is the TIP29C pin-compatible with the TIP29A?
Yes, TIP29C and TIP29A share identical TO-220 pinout (E-B-C), but differ in absolute maximum ratings: TIP29C has 100 V VCEO and VCBO, while TIP29A is rated at 60 V. Substituting TIP29A in a 100 V design risks avalanche failure. Always verify voltage stress margins before interchange.
What is the recommended heatsink thermal resistance for continuous 1 A operation?
At 1 A and VCE = 0.7 V, power dissipation is 0.7 W. With TJ(max) = 150 °C and ambient at 50 °C, RθJA must be ≤ 143 °C/W. Using typical RθJC = 0.83 °C/W and RθCS = 0.5 °C/W, a 10 °C/W heatsink suffices. Mount with thermal grease and ≥2.5 N·m screw torque.
Can the TIP29C be used in avalanche mode?
No. The TIP29C is not rated or characterized for controlled avalanche operation. Its VCEO(sus) = 100 V is a sustaining voltage under pulsed conditions-not an avalanche energy rating. Inductive switching must include external flyback diodes to prevent second breakdown.
Does the ECOPACK® marking indicate full RoHS compliance?
Yes. ECOPACK® denotes ST's lead-free second-level interconnect meeting RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. The device contains no lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, PBB, or PBDE. Full compliance documentation is available in ST's ECOPACK® database at www.st.com.
TIP29C 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):
- 100 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
TIP29C FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TIP29C through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TIP29C 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 TIP29C reliable?
The price and inventory of TIP29C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TIP29C is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TIP29C?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TIP29C transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TIP29C?
TIP29C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TIP29C 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 TIP29C?
For technical support, including TIP29C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TIP29C requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TIP29C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TIP29C 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 TIP29C meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TIP29C?
All TIP29C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TIP29C, 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 TIP29C part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TIP29C:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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