TIP41A Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TIP41A is an NPN bipolar junction transistor manufactured by onsemi, rated for 60V collector-emitter breakdown voltage and 6A maximum collector current. This device is packaged in a TO-220-3 through-hole configuration and is designed for general-purpose switching and amplification applications requiring 2W power dissipation capability.

The TIP41A is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain availability, and support ongoing production requirements for applications currently utilizing this component.

Substiute Parts

TIP41A

onsemiIn Stock: 2823TIP41A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TIP41AG

onsemiIn Stock: 2427TIP41AG Datasheet

DirectRFQ

2N6487G

onsemiIn Stock: 24412N6487G Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TIP41A is determined by the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Criteria:

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

Performance Compatibility Criteria:

• Current - Collector (Ic) (Max): 6A or greater
• Power - Max: 2W or greater
• Operating Temperature (Max): 150°C or greater

Substitute parts must satisfy all mandatory matching criteria. Performance compatibility criteria allow for equal or superior ratings, as higher-rated devices operate within the electrical envelope of the original design.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

TIP41AG (Direct Equivalent)

The TIP41AG is a direct functional equivalent to the TIP41A. Both devices share identical electrical ratings across all critical parameters: 60V breakdown voltage, 6A maximum collector current, 2W power dissipation, and 3MHz transition frequency. The TIP41AG is manufactured by onsemi and maintains the same TO-220-3 package configuration.

The TIP41AG is classified as Last Time Buy, indicating limited future availability. This part is ROHS3 compliant, providing environmental regulatory compliance advantages over the obsolete TIP41A. The TIP41AG is the preferred direct replacement for new designs and ongoing production requiring exact electrical equivalence.

2N6487G (Higher Current Capability)

The 2N6487G is an alternative substitute with enhanced current-handling capability. This device maintains the 60V breakdown voltage and TO-220-3 package of the TIP41A but provides 15A maximum collector current compared to 6A. The 2N6487G is rated for 5MHz transition frequency, exceeding the TIP41A specification.

The 2N6487G is classified as Active, ensuring long-term supply availability. This part is ROHS3 compliant. The 2N6487G is suitable for applications where the TIP41A current rating is marginal or where future design headroom is required. Note that the 2N6487G exhibits higher Vce saturation voltage (3.5V at 15A) compared to the TIP41A (1.5V at 6A), which may affect power dissipation characteristics in saturation-mode switching applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TIP41AG be used as a direct replacement for the TIP41A in existing designs?

A: Yes. The TIP41AG provides identical electrical performance across all rated parameters. Both devices are NPN transistors with 60V breakdown voltage, 6A maximum collector current, 2W power dissipation, and 3MHz transition frequency. The TO-220-3 package and through-hole mounting are identical. No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary difference between the TIP41AG and 2N6487G?

A: The primary difference is maximum collector current rating. The TIP41AG maintains the 6A rating of the TIP41A, while the 2N6487G is rated for 15A. Both devices share the same 60V breakdown voltage and TO-220-3 package. The 2N6487G provides higher current capacity and faster switching (5MHz vs. 3MHz), but exhibits higher saturation voltage at rated current.

Q: Is the 2N6487G suitable for direct replacement in all TIP41A applications?

A: The 2N6487G is electrically compatible with the TIP41A in terms of voltage rating and package configuration. However, applications operating at or near the 6A current limit should be evaluated for the higher saturation voltage of the 2N6487G. The 2N6487G is appropriate for applications where current headroom is beneficial or where the design operates below 6A.

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

A: TIP41A is classified as Obsolete, indicating no further manufacturing or support. TIP41AG is Last Time Buy, meaning limited inventory remains before discontinuation. 2N6487G is Active, indicating ongoing production and long-term availability. For new designs, the 2N6487G provides the most secure supply chain position.

Q: Are there compliance differences between these parts?

A: The TIP41A status does not specify RoHS compliance. Both TIP41AG and 2N6487G are ROHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental regulatory requirements. All three parts are REACH Unaffected and carry EAR99 ECCN classification.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in PCB designs?

A: Yes, all three parts use the TO-220-3 package with identical pin configuration and through-hole mounting. PCB layouts designed for the TIP41A accommodate the TIP41AG and 2N6487G without modification. Thermal management considerations may differ due to power dissipation variations in specific operating conditions.