The TIP32 (including TIP32A and TIP32C variants) is a PNP power transistor designed for medium power switching and signal amplification applications. It is commonly used in audio amplifiers, power regulation circuits, motor drivers and general switching tasks where moderate current handling is required. In this article describes the Pinout, features and equivalent transistor for replacement.
TIP32 Transistor Pinout
The TIP32 is comes in a TO-220 package with three legs. When you hold the transistor facing the front like metal tab or heatsink at the back and pins are pointing downward then count the pin from left to right, the pin configuration is given below,
- Base
- Collector
- Emitter
TIP32 Transistor Variants
The TIP32 series has three versions with different voltage ratings. The Letter “A” and “C” represents the Voltage rating in this transistor.
- TIP32 – 40V
- TIP32A – 60V
- TIP32C – 100V
All versions support the same current handling but differ in maximum collector emitter voltage. if you are looking for high voltage rating choose TIP32C.
Features and Specifications
- Type: PNP Epitaxial Silicon Transistor
- Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCEO):
- TIP32 – 40V
- TIP32A − 60V
- TIP32C − 100V
- Collector Current (IC): 3A continuous
- Peak Collector Current: 5A
- Power Dissipation: 40W at TC = 25°C (with heatsink)
- DC Current Gain (hFE): 10-50 at IC = −3A
- Junction Temperature: up to 150°C
Complementary Pair
The TIP31 (NPN) is the complementary pair for TIP32 transistors with same pinout and electrical characteristics.
Equivalent Transistor for Replacement
- BD242
- BD244
- 2N6491
- MJE2955
- TIP2955 (higher power)
- BD436 / BD438 (lower power alternative)
- TIP42
Applications
- Audio amplifier output stages.
- Power supply regulators.
- Battery chargers.
- Motor and relay drivers.
- DC switching circuits.
- High-side control circuits.
- Complementary push pull amplifier designs (with TIP31 NPN transistor).
