Microchip Technology 1N4742CPE3/TR8
- Part No.:
- 1N4742CPE3/TR8
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
1N4742CPE3/TR8.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 12V 1W DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,870
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Product details
Overview
1N4742CPE3/TR8 from Microsemi is a 12 V, ±2% tolerance, 1 W silicon Zener diode in DO-41 plastic package, rated for 21 mA test current, 76 Ω dynamic impedance at IZT, and 9.1 V minimum regulation voltage at 0.25 mA reverse current. It serves as a precision voltage reference or shunt regulator in power supply feedback loops and overvoltage protection circuits.
For engineers reviewing the 1N4742CPE3/TR8 datasheet, 1N4742CPE3/TR8 pinout, 1N4742CPE3/TR8 application, or 1N4742CPE3/TR8 equivalent, key selection criteria include Zener voltage tolerance (±2%), thermal resistance (45 °C/W junction-to-lead), surge current rating (380 mA), RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating, and tape-and-reel packaging (TR8).
Technical Context
This device operates in reverse-bias breakdown to maintain stable voltage across its terminals under varying load and temperature conditions. Its 12 V nominal Zener voltage exhibits a positive temperature coefficient above ~5 V, with typical TC of +5.5 mV/°C per Figure 3 in the datasheet.
The 1N4742CPE3/TR8 delivers regulated output with 76 Ω dynamic impedance at 21 mA test current and maintains regulation down to 0.25 mA knee current (ZZK = 1.0 Ω), enabling reliable low-current biasing and reference stabilization in analog sensing and feedback networks.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zener Voltage (VZ) | 12 V ±2% at 21 mA - ensures tight regulation for feedback references requiring <±240 mV deviation |
| Power Dissipation | 1.0 W at TL < 105°C - supports continuous operation with 3/8" lead length heat sinking |
| Dynamic Impedance | 76 Ω at IZT = 21 mA - limits output voltage variation under load transients |
| Knee Current | 0.25 mA - enables functional regulation even in ultra-low-power bias networks |
| Surge Current (ISM) | 380 mA (½-sine, 1/120 s) - withstands brief overvoltage events without degradation |
| Thermal Resistance | 45 °C/W junction-to-lead - allows accurate thermal design when leads serve as primary heat path |
| Operating Temperature | –65°C to +150°C - suitable for industrial and automotive under-hood environments |
Pinout & Package
DO-41 (DO-204AL) axial-leaded plastic package with cathode band marking; moisture sensitivity level 1, no dry pack required; RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating on Sn/Pb-free terminations.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Reverse-bias current sink during regulation | Connected to lower-potential node (e.g., ground or return path) in shunt configuration |
| Cathode | Regulated output terminal | Banded end; connected to voltage node requiring stabilization (e.g., feedback divider tap) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| ±2% Zener voltage tolerance (C suffix) | Enables high-accuracy voltage references without post-production trimming |
| RoHS-compliant "e3" termination | Meets global environmental compliance without sacrificing solderability or reliability |
| Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Eliminates dry-pack requirement and floor-life constraints for SMT assembly prep |
| Nonsensitive to ESD (MIL-STD-750 Method 1020) | Reduces handling precautions and eliminates need for ESD-safe workstations |
| Plastic P-suffix construction | Provides lower thermal resistance vs. glass-body variants, improving power handling at same footprint |
Applications
| Switch-Mode Power Supply Feedback | Overvoltage Clamp Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Stabilizing TL431-based optocoupler feedback loop in isolated AC/DC adapters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt reference providing precise 12 V threshold to control duty cycle via error amplifier. Use Value: ±2% tolerance ensures consistent output voltage regulation across production batches and temperature ranges. | Use Scenario: Clamping transient spikes on 12 V rail in automotive body control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Passive crowbar element diverting excess energy to ground during load dump events. Use Value: 380 mA surge rating absorbs short-duration surges without parametric shift or failure. |
| Low-Power Sensor Biasing | Industrial Analog Signal Conditioning |
Use Scenario: Providing stable 12 V bias to MEMS pressure sensor bridge in battery-powered IoT nodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-current Zener reference operating near knee region (0.25 mA) to minimize quiescent draw. Use Value: Functional regulation at 0.25 mA enables microamp-level system sleep current budgets. | Use Scenario: Setting reference voltage for 12-bit ADC input scaling in programmable logic controller I/O modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision shunt regulator establishing known 12 V reference for ratiometric measurement. Use Value: 76 Ω dynamic impedance minimizes code-to-code variation caused by supply ripple coupling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener regulation applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1N4742A | Same 12 V, ±5% tolerance; non-RoHS Sn/Pb plating; no TR8 tape-and-reel | Acceptable where tighter tolerance not required and Pb-free compliance is waived | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs precision and environmental compliance needs |
| BZX55C12 | 12 V, ±5%; DO-35 package; 500 mW rating; higher ZZT (100 Ω) | Lower power dissipation limits use in sustained >500 mW regulation scenarios | Choose for space-constrained layouts where DO-35 footprint is preferred and power demand is ≤500 mW |
Compared with 1N4742A and BZX55C12, the 1N4742CPE3/TR8 offers superior voltage accuracy (±2% vs. ±5%), full RoHS compliance, and factory-packaged tape-and-reel delivery-making it optimal for high-reliability, automated manufacturing of precision power management systems.
Availability
1N4742CPE3/TR8 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for switch-mode power supplies, overvoltage protection circuits, and low-power sensor biasing requiring stable component supply across extended production cycles.
Supply support for 1N4742CPE3/TR8 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 solutions for aerospace, defense, and industrial markets.
The 1N47xxAP series was designed specifically for robust, cost-effective voltage regulation in harsh-environment power systems-emphasizing thermal performance, long-term stability, and military-grade screening compatibility.
FAQ
What is the Zener voltage tolerance of the 1N4742CPE3/TR8?
The 1N4742CPE3/TR8 has a Zener voltage tolerance of ±2%, indicated by the "C" suffix in the part number. This means its nominal 12 V Zener voltage is guaranteed between 11.76 V and 12.24 V at 21 mA test current and 25°C lead temperature. This tighter tolerance supports precision regulation tasks where standard ±5% devices would introduce unacceptable output variation.
Does the 1N4742CPE3/TR8 require dry packing before PCB assembly?
No, the 1N4742CPE3/TR8 does not require dry packing. It is classified as Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 per IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020B, meaning it may be stored indefinitely at ambient conditions without desiccant or dry cabinet requirements. This simplifies inventory handling and eliminates floor-life tracking for SMT line preparation.
What is the maximum surge current rating for the 1N4742CPE3/TR8?
The 1N4742CPE3/TR8 has a maximum surge current (ISM) rating of 380 mA, measured using a ½-sine wave pulse of 1/120 second duration at 25°C ambient. This rating reflects its ability to absorb transient overvoltage energy without permanent parameter shift-critical for clamping applications in automotive and industrial power rails.
Can the 1N4742CPE3/TR8 be used in place of the 1N4742A?
Yes, the 1N4742CPE3/TR8 can replace the 1N4742A in most designs, but with important distinctions: it adds ±2% tolerance (vs. ±5%), RoHS-compliant matte-tin plating (vs. Sn/Pb), and TR8 tape-and-reel packaging. Electrical and mechanical compatibility is maintained, but layout and process validation should confirm solder profile compatibility with matte-tin terminations.
What is the thermal resistance specification for the 1N4742CPE3/TR8?
The 1N4742CPE3/TR8 has a thermal resistance of 45 °C/W junction-to-lead when measured at 3/8" (10 mm) lead length from the body. This value enables accurate thermal modeling when leads serve as the primary heat conduction path-essential for derating calculations in high-ambient or high-duty-cycle applications.
1N4742CPE3/TR8 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):
- 12 V
- Tolerance:
- ±2%
- Power - Max:
- 1 W
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 9 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 5 µA @ 9.1 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)
1N4742CPE3/TR8 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1N4742CPE3/TR8 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1N4742CPE3/TR8 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 1N4742CPE3/TR8 reliable?
The price and inventory of 1N4742CPE3/TR8 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1N4742CPE3/TR8 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1N4742CPE3/TR8?
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4.How is shipping managed for 1N4742CPE3/TR8?
1N4742CPE3/TR8 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1N4742CPE3/TR8 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 1N4742CPE3/TR8?
For technical support, including 1N4742CPE3/TR8 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1N4742CPE3/TR8 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1N4742CPE3/TR8 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1N4742CPE3/TR8 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 1N4742CPE3/TR8 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1N4742CPE3/TR8?
All 1N4742CPE3/TR8 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1N4742CPE3/TR8, 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 1N4742CPE3/TR8 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1N4742CPE3/TR8:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1N4742CPE3/TR8 Tags

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