Nexperia USA Inc. BZX38450-B16-QX

Overview

BZX38450-B16-QX from Nexperia is a low-current Zener voltage regulator diode in SOD323 (SC-76) package, rated for 16 V nominal working voltage at 50 µA test current, with ±2 % tolerance, 300 mW total power dissipation, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive use.

For engineers reviewing the BZX38450-B16-QX datasheet, BZX38450-B16-QX pinout, BZX38450-B16-QX application, or BZX38450-B16-QX equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical characteristics, thermal resistance data, cathode/anode terminal mapping, automotive-grade reliability context, and direct substitution guidance for low-bias regulation design.

Technical Context

This device operates as a two-terminal shunt voltage reference, maintaining stable reverse breakdown at 15.2 V to 16.8 V across I_Z = 50 µA to 5 mA, with differential resistance ≤200 Ω at 5 mA and temperature coefficient of +10.4 mV/K. It exhibits low leakage (<0.05 µA at VR = 12.1 V) and 75 pF capacitance at 0 V, enabling noise-sensitive regulation.

Designed for low-power biasing, it leverages intentional minor leakage rise (per AN90031) to improve switching speed and reduce noise in signal conditioning paths, while its 415 K/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance requires minimal PCB copper area for thermal management.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOD323 (SC-76), surface-mounted plastic case measuring 1.7 mm × 1.25 mm × 0.95 mm, with 1.3 mm lead pitch and cathode-marked body (bar indicates cathode).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener regulation applications.

Compared with BZX38450-B16-QX, BZX384-C16-Q trades precision for cost in identical packaging, while MMSZ5245B-TP offers higher power at the expense of board space and thermal path compatibility-making the B-series part optimal for AEC-Q101-compliant, space-constrained 16 V reference designs.

Availability

BZX38450-B16-QX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor biasing, portable device reference generation, and industrial signal conditioning requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q101 assurance.

Supply support for BZX38450-B16-QX 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

Nexperia is a global semiconductor expert delivering high-performance, reliable discrete, logic, and MOSFET devices with focus on efficiency and miniaturization.

The BZX38450-Q series belongs to Nexperia's automotive-qualified Zener diode product line, engineered specifically for low-current, high-stability voltage regulation in harsh-environment electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum reverse voltage this diode can sustain before breakdown?

The BZX38450-B16-QX has a nominal Zener voltage of 16 V, with guaranteed breakdown between 15.2 V and 16.8 V at 50 µA test current. Its absolute maximum non-repetitive peak reverse voltage is not specified separately, but the device is rated for 40 W surge power at 100 µs pulse width, implying robust transient capability within its safe operating area.

Does this diode require a series resistor in typical regulation circuits?

Yes - a series current-limiting resistor is mandatory to set the Zener operating current within 50 µA to 5 mA. For example, with a 24 V supply and target I_Z = 1 mA, a 8.2 kΩ resistor provides ~1 mA through the diode while maintaining regulation at 16 V, respecting its 300 mW power limit and thermal resistance constraints.

How does the "intentional minor rise of leakage current" affect circuit performance?

Per AN90031, this controlled leakage increase reduces minority-carrier lifetime, yielding faster turn-on/turn-off transitions and lower high-frequency noise generation. In practice, it improves transient response in feedback loops and suppresses audible noise in audio bias rails without compromising DC regulation accuracy or long-term reliability.

Is this device suitable for use in high-humidity or under-hood automotive environments?

Yes - the SOD323 package uses moisture-resistant molding compound, and the device is qualified to AEC-Q101 with operating ambient range of −55 °C to +150 °C. Its 150 °C maximum junction temperature and validated thermal resistance (R_th(j-a) = 415 K/W) ensure reliable operation in sealed, high-humidity engine bay enclosures when mounted per recommended FR4 PCB guidelines.