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Home > Products > Discrete Semiconductor Products > Transistors > Bipolar (BJT) > Single Bipolar Transistors

onsemi TIP32C

Name: TIP32C
Brand: onsemi
SKU: TIP32C
Price: 2.40 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (2 reviews)

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Part No.:: TIP32C

Manufacturer:: onsemi

Category:: Single Bipolar Transistors

Package:: TO-220-3

Datasheet:: TIP32C.pdf

Description:: TRANS PNP 100V 3A TO-220

Quantity:: RFQ Add To RFQ list

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Product details

Overview

TIP32C from onsemi is a PNP silicon power transistor in TO-220 package, rated for 100 V_CEO, 3.0 A continuous collector current, and 40 W power dissipation at T_C = 25°C. It delivers DC current gain (h_FE) of 10–50 at I_C = 3.0 A, V_CE = 4.0 V, and is designed for general-purpose linear amplification and hard-switching applications such as relay drivers and power supply output stages.

For engineers reviewing the TIP32C datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its 100 V blocking capability, thermal resistance (R_JC = 3.125 °C/W), unclamped inductive energy rating (32 mJ), and Pb-free RoHS-compliant TO-220 packaging - all critical for industrial control and legacy analog power designs requiring robust, through-hole discrete solutions.

Technical Context

The TIP32C operates as a medium-power PNP bipolar junction transistor with fixed emitter-base and collector-emitter junctions optimized for linear and saturated switching modes. Its safe operating area (SOA) is defined up to 150°C junction temperature, with secondary breakdown limits validated for pulse widths ≤ 100 ms and duty cycles ≤ 10%.

Electrical behavior is characterized by V_BE(on) ≤ 1.8 V at I_C = 3.0 A, V_CE(sat) ≤ 1.2 V at I_C = 3.0 A / I_B = 375 mA, and f_T = 3.0 MHz under standard test conditions - confirming suitability for audio-frequency amplification and low-to-moderate-speed switching below 100 kHz.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value and Actual Design Meaning
V_CEO	100 Vdc - Maximum collector-emitter voltage before breakdown; enables use in 72 VDC bus and 100 V flyback snubber circuits.
I_C Continuous	3.0 Adc - Sustained collector current handling; supports 24 V/3 A relay coil drive or 12 V/2.5 A linear regulator pass element.
P_D @ T_C = 25°C	40 W - Total power dissipation at case temperature 25°C; requires heatsink for >1.5 W ambient operation.
h_FE	10–50 - DC current gain range at I_C = 3.0 A; determines base drive sizing for saturation in switching applications.
R_JC	3.125 °C/W - Junction-to-case thermal resistance; defines minimum heatsink requirement for thermal management.
E (unclamped)	32 mJ - Energy tolerance under inductive turn-off; sets safe limit for relay or solenoid load switching without snubber.

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-220-3 (Case 221A), plastic, Pb-free, with metal tab electrically connected to collector (pins 2 and 4). Mounting hole centered at 8.2 mm from bottom edge; lead pitch 2.54 mm.

Pin/Terminal	Circuit Role	Design Meaning
1	Base	Current-controlled input terminal; requires ≥375 mA base drive for full saturation at 3 A collector load.
2 & 4	Collector	High-side power node; electrically tied to metal tab - must be insulated from chassis if mounted to heatsink.
3	Emitter	Common return path; connects to system ground or positive rail depending on PNP high-side switch topology.

Key Features

Feature	Design Value
High V_CEO rating	100 V - Supports direct interface with 48 V and 72 V industrial DC systems without series voltage clamping.
Robust SOA	Validated up to 150°C junction temperature with secondary breakdown limits - enables reliable operation in unregulated power stages.
Low R_JC	3.125 °C/W - Enables compact heatsink design; achieves <10°C/W total thermal resistance with standard 10 cm² aluminum fin.
Pb-free & RoHS	Compliant per onsemi Soldering and Mounting Techniques Reference Manual - qualified for lead-free reflow and wave soldering.

Applications

Industrial Relay Driver	Linear Voltage Regulator Pass Element
Use Scenario: Driving 24 VDC, 100 mA coil relays in PLC I/O modules with 5 V logic-level control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PNP high-side switch controlling relay coil current path between +24 V rail and ground. Use Value: 100 V_CEO margin prevents breakdown during relay coil flyback transients; 32 mJ unclamped energy rating eliminates need for external snubber diode.	Use Scenario: Pass transistor in adjustable 3–15 V, 2 A linear regulator for analog sensor signal conditioning. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Series pass element dissipating up to 20 W under worst-case dropout (15 V_in − 3 V_out). Use Value: 40 W power rating and 3.125 °C/W R_JC allow stable operation with minimal heatsink volume in space-constrained enclosures.
DC Motor H-Bridge Low-Side Complement	Audio Power Amplifier Output Stage
Use Scenario: Complementary PNP device paired with NPN TIP31C in discrete H-bridge for 12 V, 2 A brushed DC motor control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side sinking switch in half-bridge configuration, conducting during PWM off-cycle. Use Value: Matched V_CEO (100 V), I_C (3 A), and h_FE range ensure symmetrical conduction and thermal stress distribution across bridge legs.	Use Scenario: Output stage in Class AB 5 W audio amplifier for public address systems using ±15 V dual supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Complementary PNP emitter-follower delivering negative half-cycle current to 8 Ω speaker load. Use Value: f_T = 3.0 MHz and h_FE ≥ 10 at 1 A support full audio bandwidth (20 Hz–20 kHz) with low distortion and stable bias point.

Industrial Relay Driver

Linear Voltage Regulator Pass Element

Use Scenario: Driving 24 VDC, 100 mA coil relays in PLC I/O modules with 5 V logic-level control.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PNP high-side switch controlling relay coil current path between +24 V rail and ground.

Use Value: 100 V_CEO margin prevents breakdown during relay coil flyback transients; 32 mJ unclamped energy rating eliminates need for external snubber diode.

Use Scenario: Pass transistor in adjustable 3–15 V, 2 A linear regulator for analog sensor signal conditioning.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Series pass element dissipating up to 20 W under worst-case dropout (15 V_in − 3 V_out).

Use Value: 40 W power rating and 3.125 °C/W R_JC allow stable operation with minimal heatsink volume in space-constrained enclosures.

DC Motor H-Bridge Low-Side Complement

Audio Power Amplifier Output Stage

Use Scenario: Complementary PNP device paired with NPN TIP31C in discrete H-bridge for 12 V, 2 A brushed DC motor control.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-side sinking switch in half-bridge configuration, conducting during PWM off-cycle.

Use Value: Matched V_CEO (100 V), I_C (3 A), and h_FE range ensure symmetrical conduction and thermal stress distribution across bridge legs.

Use Scenario: Output stage in Class AB 5 W audio amplifier for public address systems using ±15 V dual supply.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Complementary PNP emitter-follower delivering negative half-cycle current to 8 Ω speaker load.

Use Value: f_T = 3.0 MHz and h_FE ≥ 10 at 1 A support full audio bandwidth (20 Hz–20 kHz) with low distortion and stable bias point.

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP power transistor applications.

Alternative Part	Technical Difference	Application Difference	Selection Advice
MJD32C	Surface-mount DPAK package (TO-252); lower R_JC (2.5 °C/W) but reduced V_CEO (80 V); same h_FE and I_C.	Requires PCB redesign for SMT assembly; unsuitable for 100 V bus applications but preferred for automated production.	Select MJD32C when board space and assembly automation outweigh need for 100 V rating.
BD912	TO-126 package; identical V_CEO (100 V), I_C (3 A), but lower P_D (25 W) and higher R_JC (5.0 °C/W).	Limited to lower-duty-cycle switching or forced-air-cooled linear regulators due to reduced thermal capacity.	Select BD912 only where mechanical fit (smaller footprint) is prioritized over thermal headroom.

Compared with MJD32C and BD912, the TIP32C uniquely balances 100 V rating, 40 W dissipation, and TO-220 through-hole compatibility - making it the sole choice for legacy industrial designs requiring field-serviceable, heatsink-mountable PNP power transistors without layout change.

Availability

TIP32C is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial relay drivers, linear voltage regulator pass elements, and discrete H-bridge motor controllers requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation.

Supply support for TIP32C 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 (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier specializing in energy-efficient power, analog, sensing, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and cloud infrastructure markets.

The TIP32C belongs to onsemi's legacy complementary silicon power transistor family, engineered for cost-sensitive, high-reliability linear and switching applications where proven ruggedness and wide SOA margins outweigh advanced integration.

FAQ

What is the maximum collector-emitter voltage rating for the TIP32C?

The TIP32C has a maximum collector-emitter sustaining voltage (V_CEO(sus)) of 100 Vdc, tested at I_C = 30 mA and I_B = 0. This rating ensures reliable operation in 72 VDC industrial systems and allows margin for inductive kickback in relay and solenoid switching. Exceeding this voltage risks avalanche breakdown and permanent device failure.

Does the TIP32C require a heatsink in typical applications?

Yes - the TIP32C dissipates up to 40 W at T_C = 25°C, but its R_JC of 3.125 °C/W means even modest power levels (e.g., 5 W at ambient) raise junction temperature significantly. For sustained operation above 1.5 W, a heatsink is mandatory; thermal design must account for R_JA = 62.5 °C/W without heatsink and mounting interface resistance.

Is the TIP32C pin-compatible with other devices in the TIP32x series?

Yes - all TIP32x variants (TIP32G, TIP32AG, TIP32BG, TIP32CG) share identical TO-220-3 package outline, pinout (Style 1: Base–Collector–Emitter–Collector), and mechanical dimensions. Only electrical ratings differ: V_CEO ranges from 40 V (TIP32G) to 100 V (TIP32CG), so substitution requires verification of voltage margin in the target circuit.

What is the safe operating area (SOA) limitation for the TIP32C at 100°C case temperature?

At T_C = 100°C, the TIP32C's SOA is thermally limited to approximately 12 W continuous dissipation (derated from 40 W at 25°C at 0.32 W/°C), and second-breakdown-limited to ~1.5 A at 50 V_CE for pulse durations < 10 ms. These boundaries are shown in Figure 5 of the onsemi datasheet and must be respected to avoid localized hot-spot failure.

Can the TIP32C be used as a direct replacement for the discontinued TIP32G?

No - while both are PNP TO-220 transistors, the TIP32G has V_CEO = 40 V versus TIP32C's 100 V. Replacing TIP32G with TIP32C may cause overdesign (excess voltage margin) but introduces risk of unintended latch-up or slower switching due to higher junction capacitance. Always validate h_FE, C_ob, and switching times in the actual circuit before substitution.

TIP32C Specifications

Product attributes: Attribute value

Manufacturer:: onsemi

Series:: -

Package/Case:: TO-220-3

Packaging:: Tube

Product Status:: Obsolete

Transistor Type:: PNP

Current - Collector (Ic) (Max):: 3 A

Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max):: 100 V

Vce Saturation (Max) @ Ib, Ic:: 1.2V @ 375mA, 3A

Current - Collector Cutoff (Max):: 300µA

DC Current Gain (hFE) (Min) @ Ic, Vce:: 10 @ 3A, 4V

Power - Max:: 2 W

Frequency - Transition:: 3MHz

Operating Temperature:: -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)

Grade:: -

Qualification:: -

Mounting Type:: Through Hole

Supplier Device Package:: TO-220

TIP32C FAQ

1.How can I place an order for TIP32C through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TIP32C 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 TIP32C reliable?

The price and inventory of TIP32C are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TIP32C is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for TIP32C?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TIP32C transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for TIP32C?

TIP32C orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your TIP32C 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 TIP32C?

For technical support, including TIP32C datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TIP32C requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that TIP32C is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All TIP32C 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 TIP32C meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of TIP32C?

All TIP32C units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TIP32C, 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 TIP32C part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for TIP32C:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

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