Diodes Incorporated AZ23C36-7

Overview

AZ23C36-7 from Diodes Incorporated is a dual common-anode 300mW surface-mount Zener diode with nominal zener voltage 36V (34–38V range), ±5% matching between diodes, and 90Ω typical zener impedance at 5mA. It operates from −65°C to +150°C and is used for precision voltage reference and overvoltage protection in power supply feedback loops.

For engineers reviewing the AZ23C36-7 datasheet, AZ23C36-7 pinout, AZ23C36-7 application, or AZ23C36-7 equivalent, key selection criteria include matched dual-Zener tolerance, thermal resistance (417°C/W), JEDEC-qualified reliability, SOT23 footprint compatibility, and automotive-grade availability (Q-suffix variant).

Technical Context

This dual Zener diode integrates two identical 36V zener elements sharing a common anode terminal, enabling symmetrical clamping or bidirectional reference generation in compact space-constrained designs. Its matched V_Z deviation ≤5% supports differential sensing and rail-to-rail voltage monitoring.

The device uses a molded green plastic SOT23 package with matte tin-plated alloy-42 leadframe, rated for 8kV HBM ESD, and complies with AEC-Q101 for automotive use when ordered as AZ23C36Q-7-F. Thermal derating begins above 25°C per the published curve.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT23 - surface-mount plastic package with 3 terminals, 0.008g mass, UL 94V-0 rating, and moisture sensitivity level 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BZX84-C36LT1G and DZ23C36-7, AZ23C36-7 uniquely delivers matched dual 36V Zeners in a single common-anode SOT23 package-reducing component count, improving thermal tracking, and simplifying layout for symmetric voltage reference or bidirectional protection.

Availability

AZ23C36-7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for switch-mode power supplies, industrial sensor interfaces, automotive body control modules, and programmable logic controller I/O protection requiring stable component supply and JEDEC-qualified reliability.

Supply support for AZ23C36-7 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.

AZ23C36-7 belongs to the AZ23C-series dual Zener family, engineered specifically for high-reliability voltage reference and overvoltage protection in space-constrained industrial and automotive applications where matched performance and compact packaging are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum DC current the AZ23C36-7 can handle continuously?

The AZ23C36-7 has a maximum power dissipation of 300mW at 25°C ambient. At its nominal 36V zener voltage, this corresponds to approximately 8.3mA average DC current (P = V × I). Derating applies above 25°C per the published thermal curve-e.g., at 85°C ambient, max current drops to ~5.5mA to stay within thermal limits.

Is AZ23C36-7 suitable for automotive applications?

Yes-the base AZ23C36-7 meets JEDEC high-reliability standards and is AEC-Q101 qualified when ordered as AZ23C36Q-7-F. That automotive-grade variant undergoes additional stress testing, PPAP documentation, and is manufactured in IATF 16949-certified facilities, making it appropriate for engine control, body electronics, and ADAS subsystems.

How does the common-anode configuration affect circuit implementation?

In the common-anode configuration, both Zener cathodes are independently accessible while the anode is shared-typically tied to ground or a low-voltage rail. This enables simultaneous clamping of two positive rails to the same reference, or creation of a symmetrical ±36V reference when paired with external resistors and biasing, unlike common-cathode alternatives that require high-side referencing.

Can AZ23C36-7 replace two discrete 1N4733A diodes?

No-1N4733A is a single 5.1V Zener in DO-41 package. AZ23C36-7 is a dual 36V Zener in SOT23. Direct replacement is invalid due to voltage mismatch, topology difference (dual vs. single), and package incompatibility. For dual 36V functionality, AZ23C36-7 replaces two discrete 36V Zeners (e.g., BZX55C36) while offering tighter matching and smaller footprint.