Diodes Incorporated ZTX796A

Overview

ZTX796A from Diodes Incorporated is a 200V PNP medium-power high-gain transistor in E-Line (TO-92 compatible) package, rated for -0.5A continuous collector current, -200V V_CEO, and 1W power dissipation at T_A = +25°C. It delivers h_FE ≥ 250 at -0.3A and operates up to +200°C junction temperature, supporting high-reliability industrial switching and voltage regulation circuits.

For engineers reviewing the ZTX796A datasheet, ZTX796A pinout, ZTX796A application, or ZTX796A equivalent, key selection criteria include its -200V breakdown rating, high DC current gain stability under load, thermal robustness to +200°C, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability in high-voltage analog control stages.

Technical Context

This PNP bipolar junction transistor is optimized for medium-power linear and switching applications where high voltage blocking and stable DC current gain are required. Its BV_CEO = -200V and h_FE = 300–800 across -10mA to -400mA collector currents enable precise biasing in high-side switch drivers and regulated power supply error amplifiers.

The device features low V_CE(sat) of -0.2mV to -0.3mV at I_C = -50mA to -200mA with corresponding base drive, and f_T = 100MHz at V_CE = -5V, supporting fast turn-on/turn-off in pulse-width modulated controls while maintaining thermal stability up to T_J = +200°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

E-Line (TO-92 compatible) molded plastic package with matte tin-plated leads; UL 94V-0 rated, weight ≈ 0.159g.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PNP high-voltage switching applications.

Compared with ZTX753 and MJD2955T4G, the ZTX796A uniquely balances -200V blocking, medium current capability, and TO-92-compatible footprint-making it irreplaceable in space-constrained, high-voltage analog control where both voltage headroom and thermal resilience are critical.

Availability

ZTX796A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply regulation, automotive engine control, LED constant-current ballast, and high-voltage relay driver applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for ZTX796A 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, specializing in high-reliability components for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The ZTX796A belongs to Diodes' E-Line high-voltage transistor product line, designed specifically for ruggedized analog switching and regulation in environments demanding AEC-Q101 compliance and extended junction temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum safe operating voltage for ZTX796A in continuous DC applications?

The ZTX796A is rated for V_CEO = -200V and V_CBO = -200V under DC conditions at T_A = +25°C. For reliable long-term operation, design voltage stress should remain ≤80% of rated value (i.e., ≤-160V), especially when ambient temperature exceeds +70°C or PCB copper area is reduced below 25mm².

Can ZTX796A be used as a direct replacement for ZTX753 in existing designs?

No-ZTX796A has -200V V_CEO versus ZTX753's -100V rating, and its h_FE is significantly higher (≥250 vs. 100–300). Substituting without circuit review risks overvoltage stress on downstream components or unintended gain-related instability in feedback loops.

Does ZTX796A require heatsinking in 1W continuous operation?

Yes-when dissipating 1W continuously at T_A = +25°C, the junction-to-ambient thermal resistance is 175°C/W (per Note 6), resulting in ΔT_JA = 175°C. This exceeds the +200°C T_J limit unless ambient is ≤25°C. A minimum 25mm² copper pad is mandatory; forced air or heatsink is recommended above 0.5W.

Is ZTX796A suitable for automotive under-hood applications?

Yes-ZTX796A is AEC-Q101 qualified and rated for T_J = -55°C to +200°C. Its green, lead-free construction and validated HTOL/TC performance make it appropriate for engine control units, transmission modules, and body electronics where high-temperature reliability is required.