Nexperia's Dual-Channel 500 mA RET: High Power in Small Space
On September 27, 2023, Nexperia, renowned for its expertise in high-capacity production within the fundamental semiconductor components sector, proudly unveiled an innovative range of 500 mA dual-channel integrated resistor transistor (RET) series products, housed in the ultra-compact DFN2020(D)-6 packaging. These cutting-edge devices have been meticulously designed to cater to a spectrum of applications, ranging from wearable technology and smartphones, with demanding load-switching requirements, to digital circuits necessitating elevated power specifications. This comprehensive offering effectively addresses the spatial constraints prevalent in computing, communications, industrial, and automotive applications.
Of particular note is the dual-space-saving approach incorporated into the DFN-packaged RET series. By ingeniously integrating bipolar transistors (BJT) and resistors within a single package, these devices dramatically reduce the required circuit board footprint. Furthermore, the pinless DFN packaging itself boasts exceptional space efficiency. This strategic fusion of integration and packaging exemplifies Nexperia's unwavering commitment to meeting the compact spatial demands of modern electronic devices.
To streamline circuit board designs and minimize component count, the new series features 12 RET devices that seamlessly combine dual-channel BJTs with integrated bias resistors within a single package. Additionally, a second integrated resistor, connected in parallel along the base-emitter path, serves as a voltage divider, facilitating precise fine-tuning and delivering superior cutoff characteristics. Thanks to the heightened tolerance of these internal resistors compared to their external counterparts, RETs are ideally suited for switch applications in which transistors operate in open or cutoff states. This attribute aids in mitigating the temperature-dependent characteristics often associated with standard BJTs and contributes to cost savings associated with surface mounting and manual assembly.
The Nexperia RET series offers a versatile selection of dual NPN/NPN, NPN/PNP, and PNP/PNP options. Notably, the compact dimensions of Nexperia RET's DFN2020(D)-6 packaging, measuring a mere 2 mm x 2 mm x 0.65 mm, belie its capacity to deliver a full 500 mA output current as specified. This specialized packaging is engineered to deliver exceptional thermal performance in high-power applications, capable of providing a total output power of up to 1 W at collector-emitter voltages (VCEO, open base) of up to 50 V.
Nexperia presents both standard and automotive-grade versions, adhering to AEC-Q101 standards, for its RET devices. The comprehensive product portfolio encompasses over 400 variants, encompassing single-channel and dual-channel RETs, as well as an extensive array of resistor combinations. Nexperia's RET series is available in DFN and pin-bearing SMD packaging, effectively catering to the diverse requirements of myriad applications across the industry.
