BD538 PNP Power Transistor

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The BD538 is silicon epitaxial-base PNP power transistors in Jedec TO-220 plastic package, intended for use in medium power linear and switching applications. The complementary PNP types are BD534, BD536 respectively

Power Transistor?

Transistors are three-terminal semiconductor electronic devices that can be used as switches or amplifiers. They can be of NPN or PNP polarity, and many different types are available with different power and switching speed ratings. If a transistor designed to these concepts can handle more than 1 A of collector current, it is generally considered to be a power transistor. Such transistors must have low output resistance to deliver large load currents, and good junction insulation to resist high voltages. They must also dissipate heat very quickly to avoid overheating.