MOSFET Selection for Medium to High Voltage Power Applications: FDMS86200, FDP18
In the design of medium to high voltage power systems, selecting a MOSFET that balances performance, efficiency, and cost is a critical task for engineers. This is not a simple substitution exercise, but a strategic decision involving voltage ratings, switching characteristics, thermal management, and supply chain diversity. This article takes two representative MOSFETs—FDMS86200 (N-channel, 150V) and FDP18N50 (N-channel, 500V)—as benchmarks, analyzes their design cores and typical applications, and evaluates two domestic alternative solutions: VBQA1152N and VBM165R20S. By clarifying parameter differences and performance orientations, we provide a clear selection guide to help you find the optimal power switching solution for your next design.
Comparative Analysis: FDMS86200 (150V N-channel) vs. VBQA1152N
Analysis of the Original Model (FDMS86200) Core:
This is a 150V N-channel MOSFET from onsemi, utilizing an advanced PowerTrench process in a compact PDFN-8 package (4.9x5.8mm). Its design core focuses on minimizing conduction loss while maintaining excellent switching performance. Key advantages include: a low on-resistance of 21mΩ at 6V gate drive, a continuous drain current of 8.8A, and a threshold voltage (Vgs(th)) of 4V. It is engineered for applications requiring efficient power conversion and compact layout.
Compatibility and Differences of the Domestic Alternative (VBQA1152N):
VBsemi’s VBQA1152N is offered in a similar DFN8(5x6) package and serves as a pin-to-pin compatible alternative. The key differences are in electrical parameters: VBQA1152N features a significantly lower on-resistance of 15.8mΩ at 10V and a much higher continuous current rating of 53.7A, while maintaining the same 150V voltage rating. Its threshold voltage is 3V.
Key Application Areas:
- Original Model FDMS86200: Ideal for compact, efficiency-driven 150V applications such as:
- DC-DC converters in telecom/industrial power supplies.
- Motor drives and solenoid control in 48V-100V systems.
- Secondary-side synchronous rectification in switch-mode power supplies (SMPS).
- Alternative Model VBQA1152N: Suited for upgraded scenarios demanding higher current capability (up to 53.7A) and lower conduction loss (15.8mΩ), such as high-current DC-DC converters, server power modules, or high-power motor drives within 150V systems.
Comparative Analysis: FDP18N50 (500V N-channel) vs. VBM165R20S
Analysis of the Original Model (FDP18N50) Core:
This 500V N-channel MOSFET from onsemi uses UniFET™ technology based on planar stripe DMOS. It is housed in a standard TO-220 package, offering a balance of high-voltage capability, thermal performance, and ease of mounting. Key parameters include: a continuous drain current of 18A, an on-resistance of 265mΩ at 10V, and a design optimized for switching power converters with robust avalanche energy strength.
Compatibility and Differences of the Domestic Alternative (VBM165R20S):
VBsemi’s VBM165R20S is also in a TO-220 package and serves as a functional alternative. It offers a higher voltage rating of 650V and a slightly higher continuous current of 20A. Its on-resistance is 160mΩ at 10V, which is lower than the original, and it features a Super Junction Multi-EPI structure for improved efficiency.
Key Application Areas:
- Original Model FDP18N50: Well-suited for high-voltage switching applications such as:
- Power Factor Correction (PFC) stages.
- Flat Panel Display (FPD) TV power supplies.
- ATX power supplies and electronic lamp ballasts.
- Alternative Model VBM165R20S: A strong choice for applications requiring higher voltage margin (650V) and improved conduction loss (160mΩ), including industrial SMPS, high-voltage motor drives, and PFC circuits in demanding environments.
Conclusion
This analysis reveals two distinct selection paths:
- For 150V applications where space and efficiency are critical, the original FDMS86200 offers a proven balance of 21mΩ on-resistance and 8.8A current in a compact PDFN package. Its domestic alternative VBQA1152N provides a significant performance upgrade with 15.8mΩ and 53.7A, making it ideal for designs needing higher power density and lower losses.
- For 500V+ applications requiring robust high-voltage switching, the original FDP18N50 delivers reliable performance with 265mΩ and 18A in a TO-220 package. The alternative VBM165R20S extends capabilities with 650V rating, 160mΩ on-resistance, and 20A current, offering enhanced margin for demanding industrial and power supply designs.
The core takeaway: Selection depends on precise requirement matching. In an era of supply chain diversification, domestic alternatives like VBQA1152N and VBM165R20S not only provide reliable backup options but also offer performance enhancements in key parameters, giving engineers greater flexibility and resilience in design trade-offs and cost optimization. Understanding each device’s design philosophy and parametric implications is essential to maximizing its value in your circuit.