CQ220-8N Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CQ220-8N is an internally triggered TRIAC manufactured by Central Semiconductor Corp, rated for 800 V off-state voltage and 8 A on-state current in a TO-220-3 through-hole package. This component is classified as obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for new designs and ongoing production requirements. The internally triggered configuration distinguishes this part from standard TRIAC designs, affecting gate trigger characteristics and application suitability.

Substiute Parts

CQ220-8N

Central Semiconductor CorpIn Stock: 705CQ220-8N Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAC9NG

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 3738MAC9NG Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CQ220-8N is based on the following critical parameters that must be maintained or improved:

• Voltage Rating (Off State): 800 V minimum
• Current Rating (On State): 8 A minimum
• Gate Trigger Voltage (Vgt): Must not exceed 2.5 V
• Gate Trigger Current (Igt): 50 mA maximum
• Hold Current (Ih): Must not exceed 25 mA
• Package Type: TO-220-3 through-hole configuration
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)

The MAC9NG qualifies as a direct substitute based on these parameters. While the MAC9NG is a standard TRIAC (versus internally triggered), it meets or exceeds all electrical specifications and maintains identical package and thermal characteristics.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MAC9NG is the qualified substitute for the obsolete CQ220-8N based on the following factors:

Electrical Compatibility: The MAC9NG meets all critical electrical parameters. Gate trigger voltage is lower (1.5 V vs. 2.5 V maximum), providing improved gate sensitivity. Gate trigger current and on-state current ratings are identical. Hold current is higher (50 mA vs. 25 mA), which is acceptable for most applications requiring the original specification.

Package and Thermal Compatibility: Both components use TO-220-3 through-hole packaging with identical thermal operating range (-40°C ~ 125°C). Direct PCB mounting compatibility is maintained.

Product Status and Compliance: The MAC9NG is active in production, ensuring long-term availability. RoHS3 compliance status is documented for the MAC9NG, supporting modern regulatory requirements.

Surge Current Rating: The MAC9NG provides specified non-repetitive surge current (80 A @ 60Hz), whereas the CQ220-8N does not specify this parameter. This represents an additional design margin for transient protection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MAC9NG directly replace the CQ220-8N without circuit modifications?

A: The MAC9NG is electrically compatible with the CQ220-8N for applications where the original part was used. Both components share identical voltage and current ratings, package type, and thermal range. The lower gate trigger voltage of the MAC9NG (1.5 V vs. 2.5 V) may reduce gate drive requirements in some circuits, but this does not prevent direct substitution.

Q: What is the difference between an internally triggered TRIAC and a standard TRIAC?

A: The CQ220-8N is internally triggered, while the MAC9NG is a standard TRIAC. This distinction affects gate trigger characteristics but does not prevent substitution when electrical parameters are met. The MAC9NG's lower gate trigger voltage indicates improved gate sensitivity compared to the original specification.

Q: Are there any package differences between these components?

A: Both the CQ220-8N and MAC9NG use TO-220-3 through-hole packaging. The supplier device package designation differs (TO-220-3 vs. TO-220AB), but both refer to the same physical TO-220 three-lead configuration suitable for identical PCB layouts.

Q: What is the significance of the higher hold current in the MAC9NG?

A: The MAC9NG has a maximum hold current of 50 mA compared to 25 mA for the CQ220-8N. Hold current is the minimum current required to maintain TRIAC conduction after gate signal removal. The higher specification in the MAC9NG does not prevent substitution and may provide additional design margin in applications with sufficient load current.

Q: Is the MAC9NG suitable for new designs?

A: Yes. The MAC9NG is active in production with documented RoHS3 compliance, making it suitable for new designs requiring 800 V, 8 A TRIAC functionality in TO-220 packaging.