Microchip Technology 1N4738P/TR12
- Part No.:
- 1N4738P/TR12
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1N4738P/TR12.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 8.2V 1W DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
1N4738P/TR12 from Microsemi is a 1.0 W axial-lead silicon Zener diode with nominal zener voltage 8.2 V, ±5% tolerance (A suffix), 31 mA test current (IZT), 4.5 Ω dynamic impedance (ZZT @ IZT), and cathode band polarity marking. It regulates voltage in low-power reference and protection circuits across industrial power supplies and analog signal conditioning stages.
For engineers reviewing the 1N4738P/TR12 datasheet, 1N4738P/TR12 pinout, 1N4738P/TR12 application, or 1N4738P/TR12 equivalent, key selection criteria include zener voltage accuracy at 31 mA, thermal resistance of 45 °C/W (junction-to-lead), maximum regulator current of 550 mA at TA = 50 °C, and DO-41 package compatibility with through-hole PCB assembly.
Technical Context
This device operates in reverse-bias breakdown mode to maintain stable voltage across its terminals under varying load and temperature conditions. Its 8.2 V regulation point is defined at 31 mA test current with 4.5 Ω dynamic impedance, ensuring predictable voltage deviation under small-signal AC superposition.
The DO-41 plastic package provides Level 1 moisture sensitivity per J-STD-020B, eliminating dry-pack requirements, and achieves 45 °C/W junction-to-lead thermal resistance at 10 mm lead length-critical for sustained 1.0 W dissipation without forced cooling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zener Voltage (Vz) | 8.2 V ±5% at 31 mA - defines precise regulation threshold for feedback and clamping |
| Power Dissipation | 1.0 W at TL < 105 °C - sets maximum continuous DC power handling in lead-mounted configuration |
| Dynamic Impedance | 4.5 Ω @ 31 mA - determines small-signal voltage variation under load transients |
| Max Regulator Current | 550 mA at TA = 50 °C - establishes safe peak reverse current before thermal runaway |
| Thermal Resistance | 45 °C/W junction-to-lead - enables thermal design using standard 10 mm lead length mounting |
| Reverse Leakage | 10 μA @ 6.5 V - ensures minimal quiescent current in standby or high-impedance bias networks |
| Forward Voltage | 1.2 V max @ 200 mA - supports use as forward-conducting clamp or dual-mode protection element |
Pinout & Package
DO-41 (DO-204AL) plastic axial-lead package with cathode indicated by colored band; leads are tin-lead or RoHS-compliant matte tin, solderable per MIL-STD-750 Method 2026.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Non-banded end | Connected to lower-potential node during Zener operation; forward conduction path when biased positively |
| Cathode | Banded end | Connected to higher-potential node during Zener regulation; defines polarity for voltage reference orientation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| JEDEC-registered 1N4738A series | Ensures cross-manufacturer interchangeability and standardized test conditions per industry baseline |
| Plastic encapsulation (P suffix) | Reduces thermal resistance vs. glass-body variants, improving power handling reliability in compact layouts |
| Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Eliminates dry-pack requirement and bake-out prior to reflow, reducing manufacturing overhead |
| RoHS-compliant option (e3 suffix) | Supports environmental compliance without performance trade-offs in standard 1W Zener applications |
| Nonsensitive to ESD | Withstands MIL-STD-750 Method 1020 testing-enables handling in non-EPA environments without added protection |
Applications
| Power Supply Reference | Overvoltage Clamp |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Stabilizing feedback voltage in linear regulators or switching converter error amplifiers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides precise 8.2 V reference for op-amp comparator inputs or TL431-like shunt regulator configurations. Use Value: Maintains ±5% regulation over 10–100 mA operating range, minimizing output drift due to line/load variation. | Use Scenario: Protecting microcontroller I/O pins from transient voltage spikes on sensor interfaces. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunts excess energy above 8.2 V to ground, limiting voltage stress on downstream CMOS inputs. Use Value: Responds within nanoseconds to surges up to 550 mA, preventing latch-up or gate oxide damage. |
| Analog Signal Conditioning | Current Source Biasing |
Use Scenario: Setting fixed bias points in op-amp gain stages or precision ADC front-ends. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Acts as low-noise, temperature-stable voltage node for resistor-divider networks driving amplifier inputs. Use Value: Delivers <10 μA leakage at 6.5 V, preserving high-impedance node integrity and minimizing offset error. | Use Scenario: Establishing constant-current source for LED drivers or sensor excitation circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serves as stable voltage reference in conjunction with series pass transistor or current mirror topology. Use Value: Enables 1% current stability over -65 °C to +150 °C via predictable 8.2 V reference and low ZZT. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1N4738A | No TR12 tape-and-reel packaging; bulk or ammo pack only | Lacks automated placement support; requires manual or vibratory feeding | Select 1N4738P/TR12 for SMT-line integration; choose 1N4738A for prototyping or low-volume hand assembly |
| MMBZ5231BS | SOT-23 surface-mount package; 8.2 V ±5%, 20 mA IZT, 30 Ω ZZT | Lower power rating (0.25 W), unsuitable for >250 mA continuous regulation | Use MMBZ5231BS where board space is constrained and power demand is ≤200 mW; retain 1N4738P/TR12 for 1W thermal robustness |
Compared with 1N4738A and MMBZ5231BS, the 1N4738P/TR12 offers superior thermal management (45 °C/W vs. >200 °C/W), higher surge current capability (550 mA vs. 150 mA), and tape-and-reel readiness-making it optimal for production-scale through-hole power regulation where reliability and manufacturability are prioritized.
Availability
1N4738P/TR12 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, analog sensor interfaces, and embedded system voltage references requiring stable component supply and JEDEC-standardized Zener performance.
Supply support for 1N4738P/TR12 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Microsemi (now part of Microchip Technology) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-reliability analog, RF, and timing components for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The 1N4738P/TR12 belongs to Microsemi's legacy 1N47xxAP Zener diode family, engineered for stable voltage regulation in harsh-environment power systems where long-term parametric consistency and JEDEC compliance are mandatory.
FAQ
What is the zener voltage tolerance of the 1N4738P/TR12?
The 1N4738P/TR12 has a nominal zener voltage of 8.2 V with ±5% tolerance, as indicated by the "A" suffix in its part number per JEDEC registration. This means the actual measured Vz falls between 7.79 V and 8.61 V when tested at 31 mA and 25 °C lead temperature. The tolerance is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range of –65 °C to +150 °C, and applies to every unit shipped in the 1N4738P/TR12 reel.
Does the 1N4738P/TR12 require dry packing before PCB assembly?
No, the 1N4738P/TR12 does not require dry packing. Its DO-41 plastic package is rated Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B, meaning it may be stored indefinitely at ambient conditions without desiccant or baking. This eliminates pre-reflow bake steps and simplifies logistics for high-mix manufacturing lines handling the 1N4738P/TR12.
What is the maximum steady-state current the 1N4738P/TR12 can regulate continuously?
The 1N4738P/TR12 supports a maximum regulator current (IZM) of 550 mA at an ambient temperature of 50 °C when mounted on FR4 with specified copper pad geometry. At 25 °C ambient, derating curves allow up to 730 mA, but thermal design must ensure junction temperature remains below 150 °C. Exceeding IZM risks irreversible degradation of the 1N4738P/TR12's zener characteristics.
How does the "TR12" suffix affect the 1N4738P/TR12 compared to standard 1N4738AP?
"TR12" denotes EIA-296 standard tape-and-reel packaging with 12 mm tape width and 10,000 units per reel-optimized for automated pick-and-place equipment. Unlike bulk or ammo-pack versions of 1N4738AP, the 1N4738P/TR12 enables direct integration into SMT production lines without repackaging, preserving moisture sensitivity compliance and traceability throughout the 1N4738P/TR12 supply chain.
Can the 1N4738P/TR12 be used in forward-bias applications?
Yes, the 1N4738P/TR12 functions as a standard silicon diode in forward bias, with a maximum forward voltage of 1.2 V at 200 mA. While not optimized for rectification, this capability allows dual-use designs-such as bidirectional clamping or combined reference/forward-protection circuits-without adding discrete diodes. However, forward conduction should remain within SOA limits to avoid thermal overstress of the 1N4738P/TR12.
1N4738P/TR12 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Voltage - Zener (Nom) (Vz):
- 8.2 V
- Tolerance:
- ±10%
- Power - Max:
- 1 W
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 4.5 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 10 µA @ 6 V
- Voltage - Forward (Vf) (Max) @ If:
- 1.2 V @ 200 mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AL (DO-41)
1N4738P/TR12 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1N4738P/TR12 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1N4738P/TR12 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 1N4738P/TR12 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1N4738P/TR12 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1N4738P/TR12 is usually 5 days.
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1N4738P/TR12 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1N4738P/TR12 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 1N4738P/TR12?
For technical support, including 1N4738P/TR12 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1N4738P/TR12 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1N4738P/TR12 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1N4738P/TR12 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 1N4738P/TR12 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1N4738P/TR12?
All 1N4738P/TR12 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1N4738P/TR12, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 1N4738P/TR12 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1N4738P/TR12:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1N4738P/TR12 Tags

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