C106 TO-126 Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR)
4A Sensitive Gate Thyristor for Power Control Applications
The C106 is a sensitive gate silicon controlled rectifier (SCR), also known as a thyristor [citation:3][citation:11]. Housed in a TO126 (TO225AA) package [citation:1][citation:2], this PNPN device is designed for highvolume consumer applications where reliable, lowcost power control is essential [citation:8][citation:11].
Device Type: Silicon Controlled Rectifier (SCR)
Package: TO126 (TO225AA) [citation:1][citation:2]
On-State RMS Current (IT(RMS)): 4A [citation:2][citation:6]
Sensitive Gate: Triggering current as low as 50µA [citation:6]
Ensure correct pin identification: Pin 1 is the Cathode (K), Pin 2 is the Anode (A), and Pin 3 is the Gate (G). The anode is also electrically connected to the metal mounting tab [citation:7][citation:9][citation:11].
Do not exceed the maximum voltage and current ratings to prevent permanent damage.
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Value | Notes |
|---|
| On-State RMS Current (IT(RMS)) | 4A | Maximum continuous current [citation:2][citation:6] |
| Average On-State Current (IT(AV)) | 2.55A | [citation:2][citation:5] |
| Peak Repetitive Off-State Voltage (VDRM) | Up to 600V | Varies by suffix (C106D400V, C106M600V) [citation:2][citation:5][citation:8] |
| Gate Trigger Current (IGT) | 50µA - 200µA | Sensitive gate for low-power control [citation:2][citation:6] |
| Gate Trigger Voltage (VGT) | 1V (max) | Voltage required to trigger the gate [citation:2][citation:8] |
| Holding Current (IH) | 3mA (max) | Minimum current required to keep the SCR on [citation:2][citation:8] |
| Peak Non-Repetitive Surge Current (ITSM) | 20A - 40A | Varies by manufacturer [citation:2][citation:6][citation:8] |
= Key Features =
- Sensitive Gate + - Low trigger current down to 50µA, allowing direct control by logic ICs and microcontrollers [citation:3][citation:6][citation:8]
- Glassivated Surface + - Ensures reliability and uniformity of performance [citation:8][citation:11]
- High Surge Current + - Can handle up to 40A surge, making it robust for demanding applications [citation:6][citation:10]
- Power Rated + - Designed for reliable operation in power control circuits [citation:8]
= Applications =
- Temperature, light, and speed control [citation:11]
- Relay and lamp controllers [citation:4]
- Process and remote control systems [citation:11]
- Motor control circuits [citation:4]
- Gate drivers for larger thyristors [citation:4]
- AC and DC load control [citation:4]
Sensitive Gate - Enables direct drive from microcontrollers and logic ICs with very low current [citation:3]
High Voltage Capability - Available in 400V and 600V variants for different applications [citation:2][citation:8]
√ Ready to use Standard TO126 package for easy through-hole mounting
√ Sensitive gate - Low trigger current for simple control circuits
√ Highly reliable Glasspassivated surface for stable operation
Package Includes
- 1x C106 SCR (TO-126 Package)
For reliable triggering, ensure the gate current meets the IGT specifications of your specific variant (check the suffix letter) [citation:5]
This device is available with different voltage ratings; verify the suffix: C106D 400V, C106M 600V [citation:2][citation:8]
Direct equivalents include the MCR106 series [citation:7] and NTE5457 [citation:4]
The sensitive gate of the C106 allows it to be driven directly by logic ICs, making it a versatile choice for many switching applications [citation:3]
The TO126 package is also referred to as TO225AA [citation:2][citation:11]
Avoid applying a gate voltage that exceeds the maximum ratings consult the datasheet
-Avoid exceeding the maximum junction temperature of 110°C to 150°C [citation:2][citation:5]
-Avoid using without considering snubber circuits for inductive loads to prevent false triggering
