IRL540NL N-Channel MOSFET 100V 36A TO-262 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The IRL540NL is an N-Channel MOSFET manufactured by Infineon Technologies, rated for 100V drain-to-source voltage with 36A continuous drain current in the TO-262 package. This device is classified as Obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent substitute parts essential for ongoing production and maintenance applications. The IRL540NL belongs to the HEXFET® series and is designed for through-hole mounting in power switching applications requiring moderate voltage and current ratings.

Substiute Parts

IRL540NL

Infineon TechnologiesIn Stock: 940IRL540NL Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

IRF540ZLPBF

Infineon TechnologiesIn Stock: 3162IRF540ZLPBF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the IRL540NL is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Electrical Equivalence Criteria:

• Drain-to-Source Voltage (Vdss): Must equal 100V
• Continuous Drain Current (Id): Must equal or exceed 36A at Tc
• Package/Mounting: Must be TO-262 through-hole configuration
• FET Type: Must be N-Channel MOSFET technology
• Operating Temperature Range: Must span -55°C to 175°C (TJ)

Secondary Compatibility Parameters:

• On-state resistance (Rds On) characteristics within acceptable operating ranges
• Gate charge and input capacitance within functional tolerance
• Gate threshold voltage and maximum gate voltage ratings

The IRF540ZLPBF qualifies as a direct substitute based on matching Vdss (100V), Id (36A), package type (TO-262), and operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C). Both devices are manufactured by Infineon Technologies within the HEXFET® series.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Replacement in Existing Designs:

The IRF540ZLPBF serves as the direct electrical and mechanical equivalent for the IRL540NL. Both devices share identical voltage and current ratings (100V, 36A), matching package configuration (TO-262 through-hole), and identical operating temperature range (-55°C to 175°C). The IRF540ZLPBF demonstrates improved on-state resistance characteristics (26.5 mOhm vs. 44 mOhm) and higher maximum gate voltage rating (±20V vs. ±16V), providing enhanced performance margins in switching applications.

Compliance Considerations:

The IRL540NL is classified as RoHS non-compliant and Obsolete. The IRF540ZLPBF is ROHS3 compliant and classified as Not For New Designs. For new product development, neither device is recommended; however, for legacy system maintenance and replacement applications, the IRF540ZLPBF is the appropriate substitute due to superior compliance status and continued availability.

Inventory and Availability:

The IRL540NL has 903 pieces in stock (new original). The IRF540ZLPBF has 3100 pieces in stock (new original, tube packaging), indicating superior long-term availability for ongoing procurement requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the IRF540ZLPBF directly replace the IRL540NL in existing circuit boards?

A: Yes. Both devices are pin-compatible TO-262 through-hole packages with identical electrical ratings (100V, 36A). No circuit modifications are required for direct substitution. The improved on-state resistance of the IRF540ZLPBF may reduce heat dissipation in the application.

Q: What are the key differences between IRL540NL and IRF540ZLPBF?

A: The primary differences are: (1) On-state resistance: IRF540ZLPBF is lower (26.5 mOhm vs. 44 mOhm), (2) Gate threshold voltage: IRF540ZLPBF is higher (4V vs. 2V), (3) Maximum gate voltage: IRF540ZLPBF is higher (±20V vs. ±16V), (4) RoHS compliance: IRF540ZLPBF is ROHS3 compliant while IRL540NL is non-compliant, (5) Product status: IRF540ZLPBF is Not For New Designs while IRL540NL is Obsolete.

Q: Are there any thermal performance differences?

A: The IRF540ZLPBF shows lower maximum power dissipation at Tc (92W vs. 140W). However, the improved on-state resistance characteristics typically result in lower actual power dissipation during normal operation. Thermal design should account for the specific application current profile and duty cycle.

Q: What is the moisture sensitivity level for both devices?

A: Both the IRL540NL and IRF540ZLPBF have MSL 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions for storage or handling.

Q: Is the IRF540ZLPBF suitable for new product designs?

A: The IRF540ZLPBF is classified as Not For New Designs. For new product development, consult Infineon Technologies for current-generation N-Channel MOSFET alternatives meeting your voltage, current, and package requirements.

Q: What is the difference between the TO-262 and I2PAK package designations?

A: Both designations refer to the same physical package configuration used for this device. TO-262-3 Long Leads and I2PAK are equivalent package types with identical pin spacing and mounting characteristics for through-hole applications.