Diodes Incorporated AZ23C12-7

Overview

AZ23C12-7 from Diodes Incorporated is a dual 300mW surface-mount Zener diode in common-anode configuration with nominal zener voltage 12 V (11.4–12.7 V range), ±5% matching between diodes, and temperature coefficient +0.075%/°C - used for precision voltage reference and overvoltage protection in power supply feedback loops.

For engineers reviewing the AZ23C12-7 datasheet, AZ23C12-7 pinout, AZ23C12-7 application, or AZ23C12-7 equivalent, key selection criteria include matched dual-zener tolerance, SOT23 thermal resistance (417°C/W), JEDEC-qualified reliability, and automotive-grade availability via Q-suffix variants.

Technical Context

This dual Zener operates in reverse breakdown mode with two independent anodes tied to a shared cathode terminal, enabling symmetrical clamping or dual-reference generation from a single package. It supports stable regulation at I_ZT = 5.0 mA with typical zener impedance of 20 Ω and low leakage (<0.1 µA at 9.0 V).

The device is rated for -65°C to +150°C operation, features halogen- and antimony-free "Green" molding compound (UL 94V-0), and meets AEC-Q101 (HBM 8 kV, MM 400 V) and IEC 61000-4-2 (air 15 kV, contact 8 kV) ESD requirements.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT23 - molded plastic, matte tin-plated alloy 42 leadframe, moisture sensitivity level 1, weight 0.008 g.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-Zener reference applications.

Compared with BZX79-C12 and DZ23C12-7, AZ23C12-7 uniquely delivers matched dual-anode Zeners in SOT23, enabling compact, drift-compensated reference designs without layout redesign or component doubling.

Availability

AZ23C12-7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply feedback, overvoltage clamp, and redundant voltage monitor applications requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for AZ23C12-7 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

Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, headquartered in Plano, Texas, with design, manufacturing, and sales operations across Asia, Europe, and North America.

AZ23C12-7 belongs to the AZ23C-series dual Zener family, engineered for high-reliability voltage reference and protection in automotive, industrial, and computing power systems where matched performance and JEDEC qualification are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous Zener current for AZ23C12-7 at 25°C?

The maximum continuous Zener current is derived from its 300 mW power rating and 12 V nominal voltage: I_Z(max) ≈ 300 mW / 12 V = 25 mA. Derating applies above 25°C per the power derating curve (Fig. 1), reducing usable current by ~0.72 mA/°C above ambient.

Does AZ23C12-7 support automotive applications?

Yes - the automotive-grade variant AZ23C12Q-7-F is AEC-Q101 qualified, manufactured in IATF 16949-certified facilities, and PPAP-capable. It shares identical electrical specs but adds change control, extended temperature validation (-40°C to +125°C), and automotive-specific traceability.

How is the common-anode configuration used in circuit design?

In common-anode configuration, both anodes (Pins 1 and 3) are independently biased, while the cathode (Pin 2) serves as the common reference node. This allows either dual independent clamping (e.g., +12 V and -12 V rails) or differential reference generation with inherent tracking due to monolithic matching.

Can AZ23C12-7 replace single-Zener diodes like BZX84-C12?

No - AZ23C12-7 is a dual-device with specific pinout and matching characteristics. Replacing a single BZX84-C12 requires careful circuit redesign to accommodate the common-anode topology and avoid unintended conduction paths; it is not a drop-in substitute for single-Zener use cases.