BD243A Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The BD243A is an NPN bipolar junction transistor manufactured by onsemi, rated for 60 V collector-emitter breakdown voltage and 6 A maximum collector current in a TO-220-3 through-hole package. This device is classified as obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for new designs and ongoing production requirements. The BD243A delivers 65 W maximum power dissipation and operates at junction temperatures up to 150°C.

Substiute Parts

BD243A

onsemiIn Stock: 3362BD243A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TIP41AG

onsemiIn Stock: 2427TIP41AG Datasheet

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2N6487G

onsemiIn Stock: 24412N6487G Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the BD243A is determined by the following critical parameters:

Primary Matching Criteria:

• Transistor Type: NPN
• Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max): 60 V minimum
• Current - Collector (Ic) (Max): 6 A minimum
• Package / Case: TO-220-3
• Mounting Type: Through Hole

Secondary Compatibility Factors:

• Vce Saturation characteristics
• DC Current Gain (hFE) specifications
• Operating temperature range

The identified substitute parts maintain the core electrical specifications required for direct functional replacement in applications designed for the BD243A. Both substitute parts are manufactured by onsemi and share the same package footprint and pinout configuration.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

TIP41AG Substitution: The TIP41AG is classified as Last Time Buy and maintains electrical parity with the BD243A across all critical parameters: 60 V breakdown voltage, 6 A maximum collector current, and matching DC current gain specifications. The TIP41AG achieves ROHS3 compliance and extends the operating temperature range to −65°C. However, the maximum power rating of 2 W is significantly lower than the BD243A's 65 W specification. Selection of TIP41AG is appropriate only for applications where thermal dissipation requirements do not exceed 2 W.

2N6487G Substitution: The 2N6487G is classified as Active and provides enhanced current handling capability at 15 A maximum collector current, exceeding the BD243A's 6 A rating. This device maintains the 60 V breakdown voltage requirement and achieves ROHS3 compliance with an extended operating temperature range of −65°C to 150°C. The maximum power rating of 1.8 W is lower than the BD243A. The 2N6487G is suitable for applications requiring higher current capacity within the same voltage class, provided thermal dissipation remains within the 1.8 W limit.

Both substitute parts carry REACH Unaffected status and EAR99 ECCN classification, matching the BD243A's regulatory profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TIP41AG directly replace the BD243A in all applications?

A: The TIP41AG matches the BD243A in voltage rating (60 V), collector current (6 A), and DC current gain specifications. However, the TIP41AG's maximum power dissipation of 2 W is substantially lower than the BD243A's 65 W rating. Direct replacement is limited to applications where power dissipation does not exceed 2 W. Thermal analysis of the target application is required to confirm compatibility.

Q: What is the primary difference between the 2N6487G and the BD243A?

A: The 2N6487G is rated for 15 A maximum collector current compared to the BD243A's 6 A rating. Both devices share the 60 V breakdown voltage specification. The 2N6487G's maximum power dissipation of 1.8 W is lower than the BD243A's 65 W. The 2N6487G is suitable for higher-current applications within the same voltage class, subject to thermal constraints.

Q: Are all three devices pin-compatible?

A: Yes. The BD243A, TIP41AG, and 2N6487G all use the TO-220-3 package with identical pinout configuration (Base, Collector, Emitter). Physical mounting and PCB layout compatibility is maintained across all three devices.

Q: What is the significance of the product status classifications?

A: The BD243A is classified as Obsolete, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited availability. The TIP41AG is Last Time Buy, signifying a final production run with defined end-of-life. The 2N6487G is Active, indicating current production and ongoing availability. For new designs, the 2N6487G is the preferred selection based on product lifecycle status.

Q: Do the substitute parts meet the same regulatory requirements as the BD243A?

A: Both TIP41AG and 2N6487G carry REACH Unaffected status and EAR99 ECCN classification, matching the BD243A's regulatory profile. Both substitute parts achieve ROHS3 compliance, which the BD243A specification does not explicitly state.

Q: What thermal considerations apply when selecting between these devices?

A: The BD243A is rated for 65 W maximum power dissipation, enabling use in high-power switching and linear amplifier applications. The TIP41AG and 2N6487G are rated at 2 W and 1.8 W respectively, restricting their use to low-power signal-level applications. Applications requiring power dissipation above 2 W cannot use either substitute part without external thermal management modifications beyond the scope of direct replacement.