on November 10th 86

How to Use the IRF740 MOSFET in High-Power Circuits?

The IRF740 is a powerful N-channel MOSFET designed for high-voltage and fast-switching applications. In this guide, you’ll explore its features, specifications, and practical uses, helping you understand how it works in various circuits.

Catalog

IRF740 Overview

The IRF740 is an N-channel MOSFET that excels in fast-switching, high-voltage applications. With a power dissipation capability of 125W, it’s well-suited for circuits where efficient performance and low heat output are needed. Its low on-resistance of 0.55 Ohms allows current to flow with minimal resistance, enhancing overall efficiency.

The IRF740 has three main terminals—source, drain, and gate. The gate, located between the source and drain, acts as the control input. Current enters through the source and exits via the drain, allowing this MOSFET to manage electricity flow effectively. Whether you’re amplifying signals or managing fast switching in high-voltage circuits, the IRF740 is versatile, often used in audio amplifiers and other high-demand applications.

IRF740 Pin Configuration

IRF740 has three pins: G stands for Gate, D stands for Drain, and S stands for Source.

IRF740 CAD Model

IRF740 Symbol

IRF740 Footprint

IRF740 3D Model

IRF740 Key Features

N-Channel Power MOSFET

The IRF740 is designed as an N-channel MOSFET, which allows it to handle larger currents effectively. This feature makes it a go-to component for applications where reliable current control is needed.

Continuous Drain Current

With a continuous drain current rating of 10A, the IRF740 is capable of managing high currents without overheating, making it ideal for heavy-duty applications that demand consistent power.

Gate Threshold Voltage

The IRF740 operates with a gate threshold voltage of 10V, which helps it respond efficiently in circuits requiring controlled voltage input. It ensures stable performance across a range of power levels.

Drain-Source Breakdown Voltage

With a drain-to-source breakdown voltage of 400V, the IRF740 can handle high-voltage conditions reliably, which makes it suitable for applications involving significant power requirements.

Low Drain-Source Resistance

Its low drain-source resistance of 0.55 Ohms minimizes power loss, enhancing the MOSFET's efficiency in circuits where heat management is essential. This feature also contributes to its longevity in power-demanding setups.

TO-220 Package

The IRF740 is packaged in a TO-220 form, providing a compact and efficient solution for heat dissipation. This package type is widely used for MOSFETs due to its reliability in various circuit designs.

Fast Switching Times

With a rise time of 27 nanoseconds and a fall time of 24 nanoseconds, the IRF740 is built for fast switching, making it ideal for applications requiring quick transitions, like switching power supplies and converters.

High Power Dissipation

This MOSFET can dissipate up to 125W of power, enabling it to handle high-power circuits effectively. This feature allows it to maintain performance even under demanding loads.

Broad Operating Temperature Range

The IRF740 operates within a wide temperature range from -55°C to +150°C, allowing it to perform reliably in both hot and cold conditions, suitable for diverse environments.

Maximum Pulsed Drain Current

With a maximum pulsed drain current of 40A, the IRF740 can handle brief high-current demands, adding to its versatility in handling various power levels.

Drain-Source Capacitance

Its drain-source capacitance of 1450pF enables effective performance in high-frequency circuits, making it suitable for applications requiring fast switching without significant delay.

Gate-to-Source Voltage Tolerance

The IRF740 can tolerate gate-to-source voltages up to ±20V, ensuring reliable operation in circuits where voltage levels may fluctuate.

IRF740 Specifications

Technical specifications, features, characteristics, and components with comparable specifications of Vishay Siliconix IRF740

Type	Parameter
Mount	Through Hole
Mounting Type	Through Hole
Package / Case	TO-220-3
Number of Pins	3
Supplier Device Package	TO-220AB
Weight	6.000006g
Current - Continuous Drain (Id) @ 25℃	10A Tc
Drive Voltage (Max Rds On, Min Rds On)	10V
Number of Elements	1
Power Dissipation (Max)	125W Tc
Turn Off Delay Time	50 ns
Operating Temperature	-55°C~150°C TJ
Packaging	Tube
Published	2012
Part Status	Obsolete
Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL)	1 (Unlimited)
Max Operating Temperature	150°C
Min Operating Temperature	-55°C
Voltage - Rated DC	400V
Current Rating	10A
Number of Channels	1
Element Configuration	Single
Power Dissipation	125W
Turn On Delay Time	14 ns
FET Type	N-Channel
Rds On (Max) @ Id, Vgs	550mOhm @ 6A, 10V
Vgs(th) (Max) @ Id	4V @ 250μA
Input Capacitance (Ciss) (Max) @ Vds	1400pF @ 25V
Gate Charge (Qg) (Max) @ Vgs	63nC @ 10V
Rise Time	27ns
Drain to Source Voltage (Vdss)	400V
Vgs (Max)	±20V
Fall Time (Typ)	24 ns
Continuous Drain Current (ID)	10A
Gate to Source Voltage (Vgs)	20V
Drain to Source Breakdown Voltage	400V
Input Capacitance	1.4nF
Drain to Source Resistance	550mOhm
Rds On Max	550 mΩ
Height	9.01mm
Length	10.41mm
Width	4.7mm
Radiation Hardening	No
RoHS Status	Non-RoHS Compliant
Lead Free	Contains Lead

Equivalents of IRF740

Part Number	Description	Manufacturer
IRF740	Power Field-Effect Transistor, 10A I(D), 400V, 0.55ohm, 1-Element, N-Channel, Silicon, Metal-oxide Semiconductor FET, TO-220AB	Fairchild Semiconductor Corporation
SIHF740-E3	Transistor 10A, 400V, 0.55 ohm, N-Channel, Si, Power, MOSFET, TO-220AB, ROHS Compliant, TO-220, 3 Pin, FET General Purpose Power	Vishay Siliconix
IRF740PBF	Power Field-Effect Transistor, 10A I(D), 400V, 0.55ohm, 1-Element, N-Channel, Silicon, Metal-oxide Semiconductor FET, TO-220AB	Vishay Siliconix
SIHF740	Transistor 10A, 400V, 0.55 ohm, N-Channel, Si, Power, MOSFET, TO-220AB, TO-220, 3 Pin, FET General Purpose Power	Vishay Siliconix

IRF740 Test Circuit

Gate Charge Test Circuit

Switching Times Test Circuit for Resistive Load

Test Circuit for Inductive Load

Unclamped Inductive Load Test Circuit

IRF740 Applications and Use Cases

The IRF740’s high voltage and fast-switching capabilities make it a great choice for circuits with loads up to 400V and 10A. Its rapid switching is ideal for applications that need seamless transitions between power sources or functions. Commonly, it’s used in UPS systems, LED ballasts, and audio amplifiers, where steady and responsive power handling is required.

This MOSFET is valuable in DC-DC converters, motor controls, LED dimmers, and battery chargers. With applications in both AC and DC motor drivers, the IRF740 fits well in industrial and home projects needing reliable power control. Its versatility and performance make it a strong choice for high-power, fast-switching tasks across a range of electrical and electronic applications.

Application Scenarios

High-Power Device Switching

The IRF740 is effective in switching high-power devices, where it can manage large currents and high voltages efficiently. Its power handling and durability make it suitable for industrial and high-power electronics.

Inverter Circuits

In inverter circuits, the IRF740 provides fast and reliable current switching, supporting the conversion of DC to AC power with minimal delay. This makes it a valuable component in renewable energy setups and backup power systems.

DC-DC Converters

The IRF740’s quick switching and high-current tolerance are ideal for DC-DC converters. It ensures steady voltage regulation, enabling efficient power distribution across electronic devices and systems.

Motor Speed Control

In motor control applications, the IRF740 enables precise speed adjustments by varying the current. This makes it suitable for industrial motors, electric vehicles, and other motor-driven systems where controlled performance is essential.

LED Dimming and Flashing

The IRF740 can modulate LED brightness by controlling current flow, making it useful for dimming and flashing circuits. Its responsiveness ensures smooth transitions, enhancing the visual quality of lighting systems.

Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS)

The IRF740 is well-suited for UPS applications, where quick switching is required to maintain power flow during outages. It handles high currents reliably, providing the consistent performance essential in backup power systems.

Embedded and Instrumentation Projects

The IRF740’s stable power handling and quick response make it valuable in embedded systems and instrumentation projects that demand controlled power flow and precise operation, supporting a range of sensor and control applications.

AC and DC Motor Drivers

With its ability to control both AC and DC currents, the IRF740 is versatile enough for use in motor driver circuits. This adaptability allows it to manage power in various motor applications, from household appliances to industrial machines.

Battery Charging Circuits

In battery chargers, the IRF740 manages the flow of current to batteries, ensuring a safe and efficient charging process. Its capability to handle high currents makes it effective for use in chargers for larger batteries.

Lighting and Ballast Circuits

The IRF740 is ideal for lighting circuits, where its high voltage tolerance and fast switching make it reliable for managing ballasts and controlling light intensity in a range of applications, from residential to commercial lighting systems.

IRF740 Package

Parts with Similar Specifications to IRF740

The parts on the right have specifications similar to the Vishay Siliconix IRF740

Specification	IRF740	IRF740PBF	IRF740PBF	FQP11N40C	IRF740APBF
Manufacturer	Vishay Siliconix	Vishay Siliconix	Vishay Siliconix	ON Semiconductor	Vishay Siliconix
Mount	Through Hole	Through Hole	Through Hole	Through Hole	Through Hole
Package / Case	TO-220-3	TO-220-3	TO-220-3	TO-220-3	TO-220-3
Drain to Source Voltage (Vdss)	400V	-	400V	400V	400V
Continuous Drain Current (Id)	10A	10.5A	10A	10A	10A
Current - Continuous Drain (Tc)	10A (Tc)	10.5A (Tc)	10A (Tc)	10A (Tc)	10A (Tc)
Rds On Max	550 mΩ	550 mΩ	550 mΩ	550 mΩ	550 mΩ
Gate to Source Voltage (Vgs)	20V	30V	20V	30V	20V
Power Dissipation	125W	135W	125W	125W	125W
Power Dissipation (Tc)	125W (Tc)	135W (Tc)	125W (Tc)	125W (Tc)	125W (Tc)

Datasheet PDF

IRF740 Datasheet:

IRF740.pdf

IRF740PBF Datasheet:

IRF740PBF.pdf

FQP11N40C Datasheet:

FQP11N40C.pdf

IRF740APBF Datasheet:

IRF740APBF.pdf