SS8550-C-AP Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SS8550-C-AP is a PNP bipolar junction transistor manufactured by Micro Commercial Co, designed for small-signal switching and amplification applications. Specified for 25 V collector-emitter breakdown voltage and 1.5 A maximum collector current, this device operates across a temperature range of -55°C to 150°C in a Through Hole TO-92 package.

The SS8550-C-AP carries an Obsolete product status. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain availability, and support ongoing production requirements for applications utilizing this transistor.

Substiute Parts

SS8550-C-AP

Micro Commercial CoIn Stock: 824SS8550-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

Substitution eligibility for the SS8550-C-AP is determined by strict equivalence across the following electrical and mechanical parameters:

Critical Matching Parameters:

• Transistor Type: PNP
• Current - Collector (Ic) Max: 1.5 A
• Voltage - Collector Emitter Breakdown (Max): 25 V
• Power - Max: 1 W
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Package / Case: TO-92-3

Acceptable Variation Parameters:

• Frequency - Transition: 190 MHz or higher
• DC Current Gain (hFE) Min: 120 or higher at specified conditions
• Vce Saturation (Max): Equal to or lower than 800 mV
• Operating Temperature Range: Must encompass or equal the specified range

The substitute parts SS8550CTA (Fairchild Semiconductor) and SS8550DTA (onsemi) meet all critical matching parameters and acceptable variation criteria, confirming their suitability as direct replacements for the obsolete SS8550-C-AP.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

SS8550CTA (Fairchild Semiconductor) is suitable for applications requiring direct electrical and mechanical compatibility with the SS8550-C-AP. This part maintains Active product status, ensuring long-term availability. The improved Vce saturation characteristic (500 mV versus 800 mV) provides enhanced switching performance. Transition frequency of 200 MHz exceeds the original specification. Compliance certifications are not specified in the provided data.

SS8550DTA (onsemi) is suitable for applications requiring direct electrical and mechanical compatibility with the SS8550-C-AP. This part maintains Active product status with confirmed ROHS3 compliance and RoHS Compliant designation. The DC Current Gain (hFE) minimum of 160 exceeds the original specification of 120, providing improved current amplification. Vce saturation is reduced to 500 mV, and transition frequency is 200 MHz. Moisture Sensitivity Level is Not Applicable, indicating superior handling characteristics.

Both substitute parts satisfy all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. Selection between SS8550CTA and SS8550DTA should be based on supply chain availability, packaging format preference (Bulk versus Cut Tape), and compliance requirements specific to the application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SS8550CTA or SS8550DTA be used as direct replacements for SS8550-C-AP in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both substitute parts match the critical electrical parameters (1.5 A collector current, 25 V breakdown voltage, 1 W power dissipation) and mechanical specifications (Through Hole TO-92-3 package). Pin configuration and functional behavior are equivalent.

Q: What is the significance of the improved Vce saturation in the substitute parts?

A: The substitute parts exhibit Vce saturation of 500 mV compared to the original 800 mV. This represents lower saturation voltage, resulting in reduced power dissipation during switching operation and improved efficiency in switching applications.

Q: Are there differences in DC Current Gain between the substitute parts?

A: Yes. SS8550CTA specifies DC Current Gain (hFE) minimum of 120 at 100 mA, 1 V, matching the original. SS8550DTA specifies 160 at the same conditions, providing higher current amplification. Both exceed the minimum requirement of 120.

Q: What is the difference between Bulk and Cut Tape packaging?

A: Bulk packaging (SS8550CTA) is supplied loose in containers, suitable for manual assembly or reel loading. Cut Tape packaging (SS8550DTA) is supplied on carrier tape in individual segments, optimized for automated pick-and-place assembly equipment.

Q: Does the higher transition frequency of the substitute parts affect circuit design?

A: The substitute parts specify 200 MHz transition frequency compared to 190 MHz for the original. This higher frequency capability does not negatively impact designs. Circuits designed for 190 MHz operation remain fully compatible.

Q: Are there compliance or certification differences between the substitute parts?

A: SS8550DTA carries ROHS3 Compliant and RoHS Compliant designations with Not Applicable Moisture Sensitivity Level. SS8550CTA compliance certifications are not specified in the provided data. Verify compliance requirements against application-specific standards before final selection.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in the same circuit board?

A: Yes, provided the circuit board layout accommodates the TO-92-3 package and Through Hole mounting. Both substitute parts are pin-compatible with the original SS8550-C-AP and require no circuit modifications.