Diodes Incorporated ZX5T3ZTC

Overview

ZX5T3ZTC from Diodes Incorporated is a 40V PNP low-saturation transistor in SOT89 package, rated for -5.5A continuous collector current and -15A peak pulse current, with V_CE(sat) < -60mV at -1A and R_CE(sat) = 29mΩ. It serves as a high-current power switch in DC-DC converters, motor controls, and MOSFET/IGBT gate drivers where low conduction loss and thermal robustness are critical.

For engineers reviewing the ZX5T3ZTC datasheet, ZX5T3ZTC pinout, ZX5T3ZTC application, or ZX5T3ZTC equivalent, key selection criteria include verified PNP polarity, SOT89 thermal performance (R_θJL = 2.81°C/W), -40V V_CEO rating, h_FE ≥ 110 at -5.5A, and automotive-grade packaging compliance (Moisture Sensitivity Level 1, halogen/antimony-free).

Technical Context

This PNP bipolar junction transistor operates in linear or saturated switching mode with specified h_FE up to -10A, enabling stable current gain under high-load conditions. Its low V_CE(sat) and R_CE(sat) minimize power dissipation during conduction, while the exposed collector pad supports efficient heat transfer via PCB copper area.

The device features JEDEC-standard ESD ratings (4kV HBM, 400V MM) and operates across -55°C to +150°C. Thermal derating curves confirm usable power dissipation up to 3.0W with optimized 25mm×25mm 1oz copper layout, making it suitable for thermally constrained industrial power stages.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT89 - Surface-mount plastic package with exposed collector pad for enhanced thermal dissipation; dimensions per Diodes' outline drawing (D2 = 1.71 mm, E2 = 2.20 mm, L = 1.05 mm).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ZX5T3ZTA, the ZX5T3ZTC offers identical performance with higher packing density; versus DMT3005LKQ, it trades gate-drive simplicity for inherent current-gain linearity and lower gate-drive power, making it preferable in base-driven analog feedback loops or cost-sensitive BJT-based designs.

Availability

ZX5T3ZTC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DC-DC converters, motor controls, and charging circuits requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and automotive-grade material compliance.

Supply support for ZX5T3ZTC 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 power management, signal integrity, and protection solutions for industrial, computing, and automotive markets.

The ZX5T3Z belongs to Diodes' high-current PNP transistor product line, engineered for thermally demanding power switching applications where low saturation voltage, robust pulse current capability, and MSL Level 1 packaging are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable continuous collector current for ZX5T3ZTC at 85°C ambient?

At T_A = 85°C, the maximum continuous collector current is derated to approximately -3.7A based on the 25mm×25mm 1oz copper derating curve (Figure 2). This assumes still-air conditions and proper thermal pad soldering; exceeding this value risks junction temperature exceeding 150°C.

Is ZX5T3ZTC qualified to AEC-Q101 for automotive use?

No - the datasheet states that AEC-Q101 qualification requires specific change control and PPAP capability, and users must contact Diodes directly to request automotive-grade versions. ZX5T3ZTC itself is not listed as AEC-Q101 qualified in DS33419 Rev. 3-2.

Can ZX5T3ZTC replace an NPN transistor in a circuit?

No - ZX5T3ZTC is a PNP transistor with opposite polarity and current flow direction. Replacing an NPN requires inverting the supply topology, reversing biasing, and redesigning base drive. It is not a drop-in substitute for NPN devices like MMBT4401 or BC817.

What is the recommended PCB pad layout for optimal thermal performance?

Diodes specifies a 25mm×25mm 1oz copper area connected to the exposed collector pad (Pin 3) for rated 3.0W dissipation. The pad layout must match SOT89 outline dimensions (E2 = 2.20 mm, D2 = 1.71 mm) and include thermal vias to inner/ground layers if multilayer boards are used.