Are these two versions interchangeable? Max operating temp for each?

 

I recall the thermal on the small 2N2222 transistors is about 180C/W ballpark whether the small metal or plastic. The metal ones were required for mil spec because they were hermetically sealed, not because of thermal superiority.

 

the circuit I'm using it on is only on for a few minutes at a time. I've had temp readouts of 95F+. 180c is really hot, so my transistor should be ok then?

 

If the otside temp of the transistor is 95F, it should be no problem.

 

The metal can version is rated for a bit more power, 1.8 W vs 1.5 W at 25°C case.
The plastic version has the better thermal impedance, 200 vs 300 °C/W

A 95°F (35°C) case is fine, nothing to worry about there.

 

Thanks bountyhunter, ErnieM. Looked all over the internet and found very little in regards to temp differences.

 

The metal can version is rated for a bit more power, 1.8 W vs 1.5 W at 25°C case.

They can't do anywhere near that kind of power in reality because the case can not be held at 25C. See attached data sheet. Max power for the plastic one is 0.625W ballpark, corresponding to the 180C/W spec I posted earlier.

 

Microsemi makes a mil version
MIL-PRF-19500/255
There part number JANTX2N2222AUB (Other packages avaliable) Operating range -65c to +200c

 

JayK026: My first stop for data sheets is the Digi Key website. I use it so often I even keep their toolbar in my browser. If you search a part number you may get numerous hits, several manufacturers and the like.

If you drill down to a specific part they link to the data sheet. Digi key keeps graphics to a minimum so the searches are damn fast.

That's how I found a 2N2222A data sheet for both package versions very fast.

 

Thanks, that will be very useful.

 

The MIL sheet says the thermal resistance of the little metal can package is 210C/W and maximum power dissipation is 0.5W at 25C ambient. Those numbers are about right for that package.