Introduction
The TIP31 is a widely used NPN bipolar junction transistor (BJT) known for its medium-power handling capabilities. This transistor is a versatile component in the world of electronics, favored for its balanced performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The TIP31 is designed for general-purpose switching and amplification applications. Its robust design allows it to manage significant current and voltage levels, making it a popular choice for hobbyists and professional engineers alike in a variety of circuit designs, from simple hobby projects to more complex industrial applications. The transistor’s ability to handle high currents and voltages makes it an excellent choice for a wide array of power-related functions.

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The TIP31 is commonly found in circuits that require driving higher-power loads, such as motor drivers, audio amplifiers, power supply regulators, and lighting controls. Its key features, including a continuous collector current (IC) of up to 3A and a collector-emitter voltage (VCEO) rating of up to 100V (for the TIP31C variant), are critical for these applications. The transistor’s moderate DC current gain (hFE) allows a small base current to control a much larger collector current, which is the fundamental principle of its operation in both switching and amplification modes. Its use in tandem with its complementary partner, the TIP32 (a PNP transistor), is common for creating efficient push-pull amplifier circuits. The TIP31 is a staple in the component inventories of electronic enthusiasts and is a testament to its enduring utility and high ranking in the world of power transistors.
TIP31 NPN Transistor (General Purpose)

 
TIP31 Pinout

TIP31 NPN Transistor Key Features
The TIP31 is a versatile NPN bipolar junction transistor (BJT) designed for medium-power applications. It is a workhorse component in electronics, favored for its balance of performance and affordability.
 
- High Current Handling Capacity: The TIP31 can handle a continuous collector current (IC) of up to 3A. This makes it suitable for driving high-current loads that smaller transistors cannot handle, such as DC motors, relays, and lamps.
- High Voltage Tolerance: It has a collector-emitter voltage (VCEO) rating that can vary depending on the specific model (TIP31, TIP31A, TIP31B, TIP31C), typically ranging from 40V to 100V. This high voltage capability makes it useful in applications like power supplies and audio amplifiers.
- Medium Power Dissipation: The TIP31 has a power dissipation rating of up to 40W (with a proper heatsink), allowing it to manage a significant amount of power without overheating. It’s often packaged in a TO-220 case, which is designed for heat dissipation.
- DC Current Gain (hFE): It has a DC current gain that typically ranges from 10 to 50. This means a small current at the base can be used to control a much larger current at the collector, making it effective for amplification and switching.
- Versatile Applications: The TIP31 is a general-purpose power transistor used in a wide array of circuits. It excels in both switching and amplification roles, making it a popular choice for motor drivers, audio amplifiers, power regulators, and lighting systems.
- Fast Switching Speed: The transistor is known for its fast switching response, which is particularly beneficial in applications that require rapid state changes, such as in switch-mode power supplies (SMPS) and pulse-width modulation (PWM) circuits.
- Complementary Pair: The TIP31 is part of a complementary pair with the TIP32 (a PNP transistor), which allows for the easy design of push-pull amplifier configurations.
 
TIP31 Transistor Specifications/Characteristics
| Characterstics | Rating (Max) | 
|---|---|
| Max Collector Current (IC) | 3A | 
| Max Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE) | 100V | 
| Max Collector-Base Voltage (VCB) | 100V | 
| Max Emitter-Base Voltage (VEBO) | 5V | 
| Max Collector Dissipation (Pc) | 40 W | 
| Max Transition Frequency (fT) | 3 MHz | 
| Minimum & Maximum DC Current Gain (hFE) | 10 – 50 | 
| Max Storage & Operating temperature | -65 to +150 Centigrade | 
| Package Type | TO-220 | 
| Transistor Type | NPN | 
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Key Applications of TIP31 NPN Transistor
- Audio Amplifier and Audio Amplifier Stages
- Power Supply Circuit Designs
- Motor Driver Applications
- Battery Charger Circuits Designs
- Switching Loads under 3A or 3000mA
- Darlington Pair
 
PNP Complimentary Transistor
PNP Complementary of TIP31 Transistor is TIP32.
Equivalent Transistors of TIP31
2SB595, 2SA77, 2N6134, 2SA1010, BD712, BD912, 2SB633, 2SB690, BDT42C, MJE34C, MJE42C, NSP42C, RCA1C06. (The pinout for certain transistors can vary from that of the TIP31).
Datasheet of TIP31 NPN Transistor
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