Transistor replacement

[bigsbybender]

I was wondering about if certain Transistors could be subbed for another along the same line.

For example: I have a piece of equipment with a shorted "TIP31B" transistor. I have some "TIP31C" Transistors on hand, I was wondering if I could replace the 'B' with the 'C'. The datasheet leads me to believe that the "C" could replace the "B" but not the other way around. (Sort of like 6L6GC could replace 6L6GB but not vice-versa.

Any insight is greatly appreciated.


j.

[PRR]

> shorted "TIP31B" transistor. I have some "TIP31C"

Yes.

They are the "same" part, except like home-made cookies they come out soft or crisp, and you can sort them for 40V 80V or 100V crispness.

I clearly remember when the C cost a LOT more than the A. Like $3, $5, and $8.

Looking further, there are a million type-numbers but probably only a hundred or so basic parts. If somehow the world ran out of TIP31B and C, we could find hundreds of other parts. In fact in many circuits a plastic '3055 would work in a TIP31 hole.

[bigsbybender]

Excellent!  Thanks again!