800 V blocking, 8 A continuous — the fit decision
The MAC8NG is a Littelfuse standard triac rated for 800 V off-state voltage and 8 A RMS on-state current in a single TO-220-3 package. The 800 V blocking voltage covers 480 VAC line-to-line with margin — suitable for AC motor speed controls, lighting dimmers, and heating element switching where the peak voltage stays below 800 V. At 8 A RMS continuous, the part handles loads like a 2 HP single-phase motor or a 1500 W resistive heater on a 230 V line, provided the heatsinking keeps the junction below 125°C.
Surge and trigger — what the ratings mean for the drive circuit
Non-repetitive surge current is 80 A at 60 Hz — this covers the inrush from a motor start or a capacitive load without exceeding the device's peak current capability. Gate trigger current is 35 mA max with a 1.5 V max gate trigger voltage — a standard logic-level or optocoupler output can drive it directly, but a series resistor is needed to limit gate current to the datasheet's peak gate rating. Holding current is 40 mA max — once triggered, the triac stays latched until the load current drops below this threshold, which matters for low-current loads like small fans or indicator lamps that might not commutate cleanly.
Package and temperature — board-fit and environment
Operating junction temperature range is -40°C to 125°C — this is the industrial grade, so the part works in outdoor enclosures, unconditioned equipment rooms, or near hot surfaces like motor windings.
Lifecycle and compliance — no surprises for the BOM
RoHS3 compliant (2011/65/EU + 2015/863) — no restricted substances above the threshold limits, and no exemption expiry to manage.