Introduction
The TIP140 is a high-power NPN Darlington transistor designed for use in switching and amplifier applications. Built using a Darlington pair configuration, it provides extremely high DC current gain, allowing small base currents to control large collector currents. This makes the TIP140 ideal for relay drivers, motor controllers, power amplifiers, and industrial switching systems.

The device has a collector-emitter voltage rating of 60V and a maximum continuous collector current of 10A, making it capable of handling medium to high power loads. It is widely used in circuits where a microcontroller, logic IC, or low-power signal needs to switch or drive higher current devices. The transistor’s high gain eliminates the need for large base resistors, which simplifies circuit design.
TIP140 NPN Transistor

Encapsulated in the TO-218 package, the TIP140 offers excellent thermal handling capabilities with a maximum power dissipation of 125W when used with a proper heatsink. Its robust design and ease of use make it popular in industrial automation, automotive electronics, consumer appliances, and audio amplification circuits, providing engineers and hobbyists a reliable solution for power switching needs.
TIP140 Pinout

TIP140 Transistor Key Features
- Darlington pair transistor with very high gain.
- Can switch high current loads with minimal base drive.
- Compatible with TTL and CMOS logic levels.
- High power dissipation with proper heatsink.
- Rugged TO-218 package for better thermal handling.
- Suitable for both amplification and switching.
Specifications/Characteristics of TIP140 NPN Transistor
- Transistor Type: NPN Darlington
- Collector-Emitter Voltage (Vce): 60V
- Collector-Base Voltage (Vcb): 60V
- Emitter-Base Voltage (Veb): 5V
- Collector Current (Ic): 10A continuous
- Peak Collector Current: 15A
- DC Current Gain (hFE): 1000 (typical)
- Power Dissipation (Ptot): 125W (with heatsink)
- Package Type: TO-218
- Operating Temperature Range: -65°C to +150°C
TIP140 Pin Configuration
| Pin# | Pin Name | Pin Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Base | Input terminal; controls the transistor. |
| 2 | Collector | Current flows through the load. |
| 3 | Emitter | Output terminal; connected to ground. |
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Key Applications of TIP140 NPN Transistor
- Relay drivers and solenoid drivers.
- DC motor controllers in robotics and automation.
- Audio amplifier output stages.
- Switching regulators and power supplies.
- High-power LED and lamp drivers.
- Automotive and industrial electronics.
PNP Complimentary Transistor
TIP145 is the PNP complementary transistor of TIP140.
Equivalent Transistors of TIP140
- TIP141 (80V, NPN Darlington)
- TIP142 (100V, NPN Darlington)
- BDW51 (NPN Darlington alternative)
- 2N6284 (high-current NPN Darlington)
- MJ11015 (higher current Darlington transistor)
(Pin configuration of some transistors mentioned above may different from TIP140).
TIP140 vs TIP141 vs TIP142 Comparison
TIP140, TIP141, TIP142 are all NPN Darlington transistors in the same family.
The main difference is their voltage rating:
- TIP140 → 60V
- TIP141 → 80V
- TIP142 → 100V
Current handling and package are the same, so the choice depends mainly on the required voltage tolerance in your circuit.
Datasheet of TIP140 NPN Transistor
Click the following Button below to download the datasheet of TIP140 Transistor :
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