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Technical frequently asked questions
Please select a question below:
Where do I find the operating temperature range of a device?
This is specified on the datasheet..
Why can it take a while for datasheets to download?
Some datasheets are large files, which is why they can sometimes take a while to download. Also the entire datasheet is downloading, not simply the first page, so that you can view the entire datasheet without interruption. Finally, don't forget that the speed of your internet connection, not to mention how busy the internet is at the time you're online, can also affect how quickly stuff is downloaded.
Where do I find temperature related data?
This will usually be specified explicitly or presented as a chart on the datasheet. A general overview is also available in Design note DN4.
Where can I source samples?
For samples, please contact your local distributor or sales representative.
Where can I find soldering guidelines for surface mount devices?
See Application note AN25
Do Zetex products comply with any flammability ratings?
We are compliant to Underwriter Laboratory specification UL 94V-0.
What is hFE and hFE ranking?
hFE is the term used to describe the current gain parameter of a bipolar transistor. This is an important parameter for the circuit designer and gives the ratio of the collector current to the base current required to establish that collector current. As the usual production processes can only repeatedly target an hFE range of 3:1, ranking or banding of hFE is used to group transistors of a particular type in categories to so that the designer is aware of the expected range. A common hFE range is 100 to 300. Transistors with minimum hFE of 300 are termed Super-Beta devices, while Darlington transistors (which are two monolithic cascaded transistors) often have hFE of several thousand (5k for example).
Do you have a helpdesk that I can contact my technical or application problem?
Yes. If your question isn’t answered in this FAQ section, click here.
How can I save a file (e.g. data sheet or applications / design note) to my computer, without first having to open the file?
To save any file to your computer, right click on the link you wish to save and click on 'Save Target As' from the options given. Then choose the destination you want the file saving to and click 'OK'. The requested file will then be saved on your computer for viewing off-line. At the present time, this functionality only works in Internet Explorer vs 5.
What are SPICE models and where are they?
SPICE is an acronym for Simulation Package with Integrated Circuit Emphasis and is used either for circuit simulation during design of integrated circuits, or for system design using discrete components and ICs. To allow the latter requires the use of SPICE models that describe the circuit behavior in mathematical terms, of a particular component.
To see the SPICE models available, click here. You can also access the SPICE model library from the home page. Where a part has a SPICE model this will be shown on the individual product page next to the datasheet.
If the SPICE model you need isn’t available, email us.
Are military, aerospace or space grade components available?
No – as for the majority of semiconductor vendors, we offer commercial grade parts only.
Where do I find details on thermal resistance?
The j-a max is usually stated on the datasheet. For more detailed information relating to the thermal transient, power derating versus temperature and resistance versus PCB area comparison, click here.
Where can I find reliability data?
FITs values, MTBF, lifetest results, HTRB and HTGB results can be found in the Quality part of this site, within the on-line reliability manual.
If my first (Zetex) choice is not available, will I be offered an alternative?
There may be an alternative available if your first choice is no longer recommended for new design. Type your required part number into the product search and if this is no longer recommended for new design, an alternative device will usually be offered. Click on this part number and it will link you to more detailed product information, including the datasheet. If no device is given, we do not offer an alternative.
How do I get pin-out details (which pin is which?)
Please refer to the datasheet.
Where can I get tape and reel information?
For details click here.
Is an ELINE package a TO92?
Not quite! Dimensionally, the E-Line is not as thick as the TO92, though the lead length and lead spacing are identical. It can be termed as TO92 compatible.
The E-Line uses a silicone encapsulant that is rated to a much higher temperature than the common epoxies used for TO92 manufacture. This feature allows higher temperature operation, higher power rating and much higher reliability. The E-Line package is used primarily for higher performance transistor die that, with the package advantages, usually allow the E-Line option to replace (competitors’) larger packaged components.
What is avalanche voltage?
NOT to be confused with avalanche transistors – the avalanche voltage of a product leads to the voltage rating specified on the datasheet. It is usually a two terminal voltage "withstand" parameter. For example, the ZTX651 has a BVCEO rating of 60V minimum – we guarantee this as the process used produces an avalanche voltage of 80V.
Where can I find details on evaluation boards?
Zetex has a number of evaluation boards available – please contact your nearest distributor or sales representative for details.
Where can I find package drawings and/or dimensions?
Detailed packaging information can be found on the product range and individual product pages.
If you have a question that isn't answered above, click here.

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