8550SS-C-AP PNP Bipolar Transistor Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 8550SS-C-AP is a PNP bipolar junction transistor manufactured by Micro Commercial Co, designed for small-signal switching and amplification applications. This device operates at a maximum collector current of 1.5 A and collector-emitter breakdown voltage of 25 V, with a maximum power dissipation of 1 W in a Through Hole TO-92 package.

The 8550SS-C-AP is classified as an obsolete product. Locating equivalent substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure component availability for production, and support long-term system maintenance where this transistor is specified in existing designs.

Substiute Parts

8550SS-C-AP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 11348550SS-C-AP Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SS8550CTA

Fairchild SemiconductorIn Stock: 41321SS8550CTA Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

SS8550DTA

onsemiIn Stock: 45141SS8550DTA Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the 8550SS-C-AP are qualified based on the following electrical and mechanical parameters:

Critical Matching Parameters:

• Transistor polarity: PNP
• Maximum collector current: 1.5 A
• Maximum collector-emitter breakdown voltage: 25 V
• Vce saturation characteristics: 500 mV @ 80 mA, 800 mA
• Maximum collector cutoff current: 100 nA
• Minimum DC current gain (hFE): 120 @ 100 mA, 1 V
• Maximum power dissipation: 1 W
• Mounting type: Through Hole
• Package type: TO-92-3

Allowable Parameter Variations: Substitute parts may exceed the transition frequency specification of the main part, as higher frequency capability does not degrade performance in applications designed for 100 MHz operation. Operating temperature range may be extended in substitute parts without affecting compatibility.

The two substitute parts listed below meet all critical electrical parameters and package requirements for direct substitution in applications currently using the 8550SS-C-AP.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

SS8550CTA (Fairchild Semiconductor) is an active product substitute with full electrical parameter equivalence to the 8550SS-C-AP. This part maintains identical collector current, breakdown voltage, saturation characteristics, and current gain specifications. The transition frequency of 200 MHz exceeds the original specification and provides enhanced performance margin. Bulk packaging is available with 41,300 units in stock.

SS8550DTA (onsemi) is an active product substitute with electrical parameters that meet or exceed the 8550SS-C-AP specification. The DC current gain minimum of 160 @ 100 mA, 1 V exceeds the original requirement of 120, providing improved gain margin. The transition frequency of 200 MHz provides additional performance headroom. This part carries ROHS3 compliance certification and is available in Cut Tape packaging with 45,100 units in stock.

Both substitute parts are qualified for direct replacement based on matching critical electrical parameters, identical package type (TO-92-3), and active product status ensuring long-term availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SS8550CTA or SS8550DTA be used as direct replacements for 8550SS-C-AP in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both substitute parts meet all critical electrical specifications: 1.5 A maximum collector current, 25 V breakdown voltage, identical saturation characteristics, and equivalent current gain. The TO-92-3 package is mechanically identical, enabling direct board-level substitution without design modification.

Q: What is the significance of the higher transition frequency (200 MHz) in the substitute parts?

A: The substitute parts operate at 200 MHz transition frequency compared to the original 100 MHz specification. This represents enhanced frequency capability and does not create compatibility issues in applications designed for 100 MHz operation. Higher transition frequency provides additional performance margin without degrading circuit function.

Q: How do the DC current gain specifications differ between the main part and substitutes?

A: The 8550SS-C-AP specifies a minimum hFE of 120 @ 100 mA, 1 V. The SS8550CTA maintains this specification at 120, while the SS8550DTA provides a higher minimum of 160 @ 100 mA, 1 V. Both values exceed the minimum requirement, ensuring adequate gain for switching and amplification applications.

Q: Are there packaging differences between the substitute parts?

A: The 8550SS-C-AP is supplied in bulk packaging. SS8550CTA is available in Bulk packaging, while SS8550DTA is available in Cut Tape (CT) packaging. Both use the identical TO-92-3 package case, ensuring mechanical compatibility. Packaging format affects supply chain handling but does not impact electrical performance or board-level installation.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to the substitute parts?

A: SS8550CTA compliance status is not specified in available documentation. SS8550DTA carries ROHS3 compliance certification, meeting current environmental and hazardous substance restrictions. Both parts are classified under ECCN EAR99 and HTSUS 8541.29.0075.

Q: Why is the 8550SS-C-AP classified as obsolete?

A: The 8550SS-C-AP is an obsolete product from Micro Commercial Co. Active substitute parts from established manufacturers (Fairchild Semiconductor and onsemi) provide equivalent electrical performance with assured long-term availability and supply chain support.