2N6387 - High-Power NPN Darlington Transistor

Overview

The 2N6387 is a high-power NPN Darlington transistor designed for demanding switching and amplification applications. This robust component combines two bipolar transistors in a Darlington configuration, providing extremely high current gain and excellent performance in high-power circuits. Manufactured with rugged construction, the 2N6387 is particularly suited for industrial and automotive environments where reliability under harsh conditions is essential.

With its ability to handle collector currents up to 16A and collector-emitter voltages up to 80V, this transistor serves as an excellent choice for motor control, power supply regulation, and other high-current switching applications. The built-in freewheeling diode enhances its usability in inductive load applications.

Features

• High Current Capability: Continuous collector current (Ic) rating of 16A.
• Darlington Configuration: Provides very high current gain (h_FE), typically 1000 at 8A.
• Built-in Freewheeling Diode: Integrated suppressor diode for inductive load protection.
• High Voltage Rating: Collector-emitter voltage (V_CEO) of 80V.
• Low Saturation Voltage: V_CE(sat) typically 1.5V at I_C = 8A.
• Rugged Construction: Designed for reliable operation in demanding environments.
• TO-220 Package: Industry-standard package for easy mounting and heat dissipation.

Applications

The 2N6387 finds use in a wide range of power electronics applications, including:

• Motor Control: DC motor drivers, servo controllers, and actuator controls.
• Power Supplies: Linear and switching regulator circuits.
• Automotive Systems: Electronic ignition, power window controls, and fan drivers.
• Industrial Equipment: Solenoid and relay drivers, contactor controls.
• Audio Amplifiers: High-power output stages in audio systems.
• Lighting Controls: High-current LED drivers and incandescent lamp controls.

Electrical Characteristics

Absolute Maximum Ratings

• Collector-Emitter Voltage (V_CEO): 80V
• Collector-Base Voltage (V_CBO): 80V
• Emitter-Base Voltage (V_EBO): 5V
• Collector Current (I_C): 16A (continuous), 30A (peak)
• Base Current (I_B): 4A
• Total Power Dissipation (P_tot): 75W at 25°C case temperature
• Operating Junction Temperature Range (T_j): -65°C to +150°C
• Storage Temperature Range (T_stg): -65°C to +150°C

Thermal Characteristics

• Thermal Resistance, Junction-to-Case (R_θJC): 1.67°C/W
• Thermal Resistance, Junction-to-Ambient (R_θJA): 62.5°C/W

Electrical Characteristics (T_A = 25°C unless otherwise noted)

• DC Current Gain (h_FE):
  • 1000 (min) at I_C = 8A, V_CE = 4V
  • 2500 (typ) at I_C = 4A, V_CE = 4V
• Collector-Emitter Saturation Voltage (V_CE(sat)):
  • 1.5V (max) at I_C = 8A, I_B = 8mA
  • 2.0V (max) at I_C = 16A, I_B = 16mA
• Base-Emitter Saturation Voltage (V_BE(sat)):
  • 2.5V (max) at I_C = 8A, I_B = 8mA
• Turn-on Time (t_on): 1.0μs (max)
• Storage Time (t_s): 4.0μs (max)
• Fall Time (t_f): 1.5μs (max)

Package Information

The 2N6387 is available in the industry-standard TO-220 package, which provides excellent thermal performance and mechanical strength. The package dimensions and pin configuration are as follows:

TO-220 Package Dimensions

• Total Height: 16.0mm (max)
• Lead Length: 12.7mm (min)
• Lead Spacing: 2.54mm (between centers)
• Mounting Hole Diameter: 3.6mm (recommended)
• Package Weight: Approximately 2.0 grams

Pin Configuration

• Pin 1: Base
• Pin 2: Collector (connected to tab)
• Pin 3: Emitter

The metal tab is electrically connected to the collector and should be properly insulated when mounting to heat sinks in applications where the collector potential differs from ground.

Mounting Considerations

For optimal performance and reliability, follow these mounting guidelines:

• Use a thermally conductive but electrically insulating washer when mounting to heat sinks.
• Apply appropriate thermal compound between the package and heat sink.
• Use a torque of 0.55 N·m to 0.8 N·m (5.0 to 7.0 lbf·in) when tightening the mounting screw.
• Ensure adequate heat sink capacity to maintain junction temperature below 150°C.
• For high-current applications, use proper PCB trace widths or heavy-gauge wiring.

Reliability and Qualification

The 2N6387 is manufactured under strict quality control standards and has undergone rigorous testing to ensure reliability:

• 100% electrical testing at elevated temperatures
• High-temperature reverse bias (HTRB) testing
• Temperature cycling and thermal shock testing
• Mechanical shock and vibration testing
• Moisture resistance testing per JEDEC standards

Handling Precautions

To prevent damage to the device and ensure optimal performance:

• Observe proper ESD precautions during handling and installation.
• Avoid exceeding maximum ratings, especially during circuit testing.
• Ensure proper heat sinking during operation.
• Use current-limiting