Diodes Incorporated ZTX415STZ

Overview

ZTX415STZ from Diodes Incorporated is an NPN silicon planar medium-power avalanche transistor designed for controlled high-energy pulse switching, featuring BVCES > 260 V, VCEO > 100 V, 60 A peak avalanche current (20 ns pulse), 500 mA continuous collector current, and 680 mW power dissipation in E-Line package - used in flyback snubber circuits, pulse generators, and ignition drivers.

For engineers reviewing the ZTX415STZ datasheet, ZTX415STZ pinout, ZTX415STZ application, or ZTX415STZ equivalent, key selection criteria include avalanche energy handling, second-breakdown robustness, thermal resistance (RθJA = 250 °C/W), and E-Line leaded package compatibility with through-hole PCB layouts requiring mechanical stability under transient stress.

Technical Context

This transistor is engineered specifically for reliable operation in avalanche mode, not as a general-purpose linear or switching BJT. Its design emphasizes high VCES (260 V) and pulsed ICM (60 A) with defined second-breakdown limits (IUSB = 25–35 A at VC = 200–250 V, CCE = 620 pF), enabling controlled energy clamping without destructive failure.

It exhibits fT = 40 MHz at VCE = 20 V/IC = 10 mA and low output capacitance (Cobo = 8 pF @ VCB = 20 V), supporting fast turn-off in high-voltage pulse applications. The E-Line package provides mechanical rigidity and thermal path via the collector lead (RθJL = 197 °C/W).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

E-Line package: molded plastic case (UL 94V-0), matte tin-plated leads, 159 mg weight, moisture sensitivity Level 1. Collector lead serves as primary thermal and mechanical anchor; emitter and base leads are axial and coplanar.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ZTX453 and BUV27, ZTX415STZ uniquely combines 100 V VCEO, 260 V VCES, 60 A avalanche pulse rating, and E-Line package - making it optimal for space-constrained, high-reliability pulse clamping where both voltage margin and transient energy handling are critical.

Availability

ZTX415STZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ignition systems, flyback clamping, pulse generator modules, and capacitor discharge circuits requiring stable component supply and traceable RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for ZTX415STZ 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

Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, headquartered in Plano, Texas, serving industrial, computing, consumer, and communications markets with high-reliability components.

ZTX415STZ belongs to Diodes' E-Line bipolar transistor product line, developed specifically for ruggedized high-voltage pulse switching and avalanche-mode energy management in safety-critical power electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable pulse width for avalanche operation?

The datasheet specifies 60 A peak avalanche current at 20 ns pulse width, with duty cycle ≤ 2% and pulse width ≤ 300 µs for hFE and VCE(sat) tests. For sustained avalanche use, pulse width must remain ≤ 20 ns to guarantee reliability within rated IUSB limits and avoid second-breakdown.

Can ZTX415STZ be used in linear amplifier applications?

No - this device is specifically designed and characterized for avalanche-mode switching, not linear amplification. Its hFE is unguaranteed above 10 mA, and thermal instability in active region operation is not characterized. Use only in saturated switching or controlled avalanche configurations.

Is the E-Line package compatible with automated through-hole insertion?

Yes - the E-Line package has standardized lead spacing (e = 1.27 mm, e2 = 2.54 mm) and 0.70 mm max lead hole diameter, meeting IPC-7351 guidelines for axial through-hole placement. Lead coplanarity and matte tin plating ensure reliable wave soldering and machine insertion.

How does ZTX415STZ differ from standard ZTX415 in terms of packaging and marking?

ZTX415STZ denotes the tape-and-reel version (2000 units per reel), while ZTX415 refers to bulk packaging (4000 units). Both share identical die, E-Line package dimensions, electrical specs, and marking code "ZTX415" on the device body - only packaging format and reel labeling differ.