2N7079 MOSFET — Specifications & Equivalents

About the 2N7079

The 2N7079 is a MOSFET with a drain–source voltage (V_DS) rating of 100 V and a continuous drain current (I_D) of 17 A. It can dissipate up to 100 W and is rated to a junction temperature of 150 °C. It is supplied in the TO254 package.

At a glance

• Type: MOSFET
• Max drain–source voltage (V_DS): 100 V
• Max continuous drain current (I_D): 17 A
• Power dissipation (P_D): 100 W
• Max junction temperature (T_J): 150 °C
• Package: TO254
• Manufacturer: Multi-source (JEDEC registered part number)

Typical applications

With its 100 V drain–source rating the 2N7079 sits in the medium-voltage class of switching MOSFETs, typically found in 48 V and 96 V distribution systems, solar and telecom power stages, DC motor drives and intermediate-bus DC-DC converters.

Gate drive and switching notes

Keep gate–source voltage within the ±20 V maximum; exceeding it punctures the gate oxide and destroys the device permanently.

Switching behaviour is characterised by an output capacitance (C_oss) of 750 pF, which together with the gate drive determines switching loss and the practical upper frequency limit.

Choosing a replacement for the 2N7079

A drop-in substitute for the 2N7079 should match its polarity and offer a drain–source rating of at least 100 V and a continuous drain current rating of at least 17 A.

Mechanically, check the replacement against the TO254 footprint and confirm the pin order — parts sharing a package outline do not always share a pinout.

Because 2N7079 is a JEDEC-registered part number rather than one vendor's proprietary series, it is produced by several manufacturers. Datasheet figures vary slightly between them, so check the datasheet of the brand you actually buy — this also makes like-for-like sourcing easier.

Where the application switches inductive loads or runs near the voltage limit, keep extra headroom rather than choosing a part that only just meets the original numbers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the 2N7079?

The 2N7079 is a MOSFET (metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor). It is rated for 100 V drain-source and 17 A continuous drain current.

What is the maximum voltage of the 2N7079?

The 2N7079 has a maximum drain-source voltage (Vds) of 100 V. Treat this as an absolute maximum and design with margin, especially when switching inductive loads.

How much current can the 2N7079 handle?

It is rated for 17 A of continuous drain current, with power dissipation limited to 100 W. Real-world capability depends on your heatsinking and ambient temperature.

What package does the 2N7079 come in?

It is listed in TO254. Verify the pinout of the specific variant, as one outline can carry different pin assignments.

What can I use to replace the 2N7079?

This page lists 17 candidate equivalents matched on electrical ratings and package. Any replacement should meet or exceed the original voltage, current and dissipation figures and use a compatible drive level.