Diodes Incorporated AZ23C15-7

Overview

AZ23C15-7 from Diodes Incorporated is a dual common-anode 300 mW surface-mount Zener diode with nominal Zener voltage 15 V (13.8–15.6 V range), ±5% matching between diodes, and 30 Ω typical Zener impedance at 5 mA. It operates from −65 °C to +150 °C and is used for precision voltage reference and overvoltage protection in compact power management circuits.

For engineers reviewing the AZ23C15-7 datasheet, AZ23C15-7 pinout, AZ23C15-7 application, or AZ23C15-7 equivalent, key selection criteria include dual-Zener matching tolerance, thermal resistance (417 °C/W), JEDEC-qualified reliability, SOT23 footprint compatibility, and automotive-grade availability via Q-suffix variants.

Technical Context

This device integrates two Zener diodes sharing a common anode terminal in a single SOT23 package, enabling bidirectional clamping or dual-reference generation without discrete pairing. Its matched voltage drift (≤5% ΔV_Z) and low temperature coefficient (+0.080 %/°C) support stable biasing in analog front-ends and feedback networks.

The 300 mW power rating is derated linearly above 25 °C per the published curve (Fig. 1), and junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 417 °C/W assumes FR-4 PCB mounting with Diodes' recommended pad layout. Reverse leakage remains ≤0.1 µA at 11.0 V, supporting low-power standby regulation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT23 - surface-mount plastic package with matte tin-plated alloy 42 leadframe, moisture sensitivity level 1, UL 94V-0 rated molding compound, and 0.008 g mass.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BZX84-C15LT1G and DZ23C15-7-F, AZ23C15-7 uniquely delivers matched dual-Zener performance in common-anode topology-enabling compact, single-device solutions for differential reference generation and bidirectional transient suppression where polarity alignment matters.

Availability

AZ23C15-7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor conditioning, automotive body control modules, medical infusion pumps, and telecom power sequencing requiring stable component supply and JEDEC-qualified reliability.

Supply support for AZ23C15-7 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.

AZ23C15-7 belongs to the AZ23 series of dual Zener diodes designed specifically for space-constrained, high-reliability voltage reference and protection applications in automotive, industrial, and medical electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum reverse voltage before breakdown for AZ23C15-7?

The minimum specified Zener voltage is 13.8 V at test current I_ZT = 5 mA. Breakdown begins gradually below this value; the device guarantees ≤0.1 µA leakage at 11.0 V, confirming stable non-conduction up to that point. Full regulation occurs only above 13.8 V under defined test conditions.

Can AZ23C15-7 be used in automotive applications?

Yes - the commercial AZ23C15-7-7-F variant is JEDEC-qualified and AEC-Q101 stress-tested (HBM 8 kV, MM 400 V). For full automotive qualification including PPAP and IATF 16949 manufacturing, select the Q-suffix version (e.g., AZ23C15Q-7-F), listed on Diodes' automotive products page.

How does the common-anode configuration affect circuit implementation?

In common-anode mode, both Zener cathodes are independently accessible while the anode connects to the most negative potential (e.g., ground). This enables clamping from two positive rails to ground or generating two referenced voltages relative to a shared return - unlike common-cathode parts which clamp to a shared positive rail.

Is thermal derating required for operation above 25°C?

Yes - the datasheet specifies linear derating beyond 25 °C: maximum power drops by 2.4 mW/°C (300 mW ÷ 417 °C/W). At 85 °C ambient, max dissipation reduces to ~156 mW. Derating must be applied using the published curve (Fig. 1) and assumes Diodes' recommended SOT23 pad layout on FR-4.