The TIP116 is a PNP Darlington power transistor designed for high-gain amplification and reliable power switching. This article explains the TIP116 pinout, features, specifications, working principle, and applications in the same 9-heading format.

Introduction
The TIP116 is a medium-power PNP Darlington transistor commonly used in driver and switching stages where high current gain is required. Its Darlington configuration allows a small base current to control relatively higher collector currents with good thermal stability.

Pin Configuration / Pinout of TIP116 Transistor

Understanding the TIP116 Pinout Configuration
The TIP116 comes in a TO-220 package with a B-C-E pin configuration:
| Pin# | Pin Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Base |
| 2 | Collector |
| 3 | Emitter |
Correct TIP116 pinout identification is essential for safe circuit operation.
Note: DATASHEET DOWNLOAD button is provided end of this article.
TIP116 Key Features
- PNP Darlington transistor structure
- Very high DC current gain
- Low base drive requirement
- Suitable for power switching applications
- TO-220 package for efficient heat dissipation
- Stable performance in industrial and hobby circuits
TIP116 Specifications / Characteristics
- Collector-Emitter Voltage (VCE): 80V
- Collector-Base Voltage (VCB): 80V
- Emitter-Base Voltage (VEB): 5V
- Collector Current (IC): 2A
- Power Dissipation (PD): 50W
- Junction Temperature (Tj): 150 °C
- Storage Temperature (Tstg): −65 °C to +150 °C
- Package Type: TO-220
- Pin Configuration: Base – Collector – Emitter
Key Applications of TIP116 Transistor
- High-side power switching
- Relay and solenoid drivers
- DC motor driver circuits
- Power amplifier driver stages
- Industrial control systems
TIP116 Equivalent / Alternatives
(Verify pin compatibility before using substitutions)
Equivalent MOSFETs: TIP115, TIP117
Alternative MOSFETs: TIP125, BD680
More Circuit Layouts








Working Principle of TIP116
The TIP116 operates using two internally connected PNP transistors in a Darlington configuration. The input base current is amplified by the first transistor and further amplified by the second, resulting in a very high overall current gain suitable for driving loads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is TIP116 a MOSFET?
No, TIP116 is a bipolar junction transistor with a Darlington configuration.
Q2: Does TIP116 need a heat sink?
Yes, a heat sink is recommended when operating near its power limits.
Q3: Can TIP116 be driven by low-power control circuits?
Yes, due to its high current gain, it requires only a small base current.
Q4: What is the main advantage of TIP116?
Its high gain and robust TO-220 package make it suitable for power driver applications.
Conclusion
The TIP116 PNP Darlington transistor is a reliable choice for medium-power switching and amplification tasks. With higher voltage capability than TIP115, efficient thermal handling, and simple pin configuration, it remains a popular option in power electronics designs.
Datasheet of TIP116 Transistor
Click the following Button below to download the datasheet of TIP116 :
More projects, You may like:
- Video Transmitter DIY Homemade FM Radio Transmitter
- Adjustable Power Supply DIY Battery Charger
- 12V-220V 500 Watt inverter DIY Homemade
- MPPT Solar Charge Controller DIY Homemade
- DIY LA4440 bass amplifier homemade
For more project and circuit diagrams, you can go through the Schematics in the main menu where you can find many interesting projects and circuit diagrams like audio amplifier circuits, voltage booster circuit, battery charger circuit and timer circuits etc., which are all beginner circuit projects. Feel free to check them out!

Thank you for visiting the article.

























