Nexperia USA Inc. BZX38450-C12F
- Part No.:
- BZX38450-C12F
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- SC-76, SOD-323
- Datasheet:
-
BZX38450-C12F.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 12V 300MW SOD323
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,958
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
BZX38450-C12F from Nexperia is a low-current Zener voltage regulator diode in SOD323 (SC-76) package, designed for precision biasing and voltage reference in ultra-low-power circuits. It delivers a nominal 12 V regulation at 50 µA test current, with ±5 % tolerance, 150 Ω typical differential resistance at 5 mA, and 9.1 V reverse breakdown voltage at 0.05 µA leakage - ideal for battery-powered sensor nodes and portable instrumentation.
For engineers reviewing the BZX38450-C12F datasheet, BZX38450-C12F pinout, BZX38450-C12F application, or BZX38450-C12F equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12 V nominal Zener voltage, 150 Ω dynamic impedance at 5 mA, 300 mW power dissipation limit, and intentional low-leakage design optimized for stable reference in low-bias analog front-ends.
Technical Context
This device operates as a two-terminal shunt voltage regulator, maintaining stable output voltage across varying load currents by conducting reverse current above its specified Zener breakdown threshold. Its 12 V nominal working voltage is guaranteed between 11.4 V (min) and 12.6 V (max) at IZ = 50 µA, with temperature coefficient of +6.0 mV/K ensuring predictable drift over industrial temperature range.
The BZX38450-C12F features intentionally minimized reverse leakage (≤0.05 µA at 9.1 V), enabling high-impedance node stabilization without loading sensitive circuits. Its 150 Ω differential resistance at 5 mA supports tight regulation under moderate current variation, while 225 Ω max at 1 mA ensures usable performance even at microampere bias levels.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zener Voltage (VZ) | 11.4 V to 12.6 V at IZ = 50 µA - defines precise regulation window for low-current reference applications |
| Differential Resistance (rdiff) | 150 Ω typ. at IZ = 5 mA - determines voltage deviation under load current changes |
| Reverse Leakage (IR) | ≤ 0.05 µA at VR = 9.1 V - enables use in high-impedance bias networks without signal degradation |
| Power Dissipation (Ptot) | 300 mW at Tamb ≤ 25 °C - sets maximum continuous thermal budget on standard FR4 PCB |
| Forward Voltage (VF) | 0.9 V max at IF = 10 mA - limits forward conduction loss during transient polarity events |
| Thermal Resistance (Rth(j-a)) | 415 K/W - defines junction-to-ambient temperature rise per watt under free-air conditions |
| Capacitance (Cd) | 85 pF at VR = 0 V, f = 1 MHz - impacts high-frequency noise filtering capability in reference paths |
Pinout & Package
SOD323 (SC-76) surface-mount plastic package: 1.7 mm × 1.25 mm × 0.95 mm body, 1.3 mm lead pitch, cathode marked by bar on top surface.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cathode (K) | Connected to regulated voltage node; reverse-biased terminal where Zener breakdown occurs |
| 2 | Anode (A) | Connected to circuit ground or lower-potential rail; completes shunt regulation path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low test current operation | Specified at 50 µA - enables stable regulation in µA-level bias circuits like CMOS oscillator references |
| Tight voltage tolerance | ±5 % (C-series) - reduces calibration overhead in portable medical and IoT sensor signal chains |
| Optimized leakage profile | ≤0.05 µA at 9.1 V - prevents loading of high-impedance op-amp inputs and ADC reference dividers |
| Miniature SMD footprint | SOD323 package - saves board space in wearables and compact battery management modules |
| Industrial temperature range | −55 °C to +150 °C operating ambient - supports deployment in automotive cabin electronics and industrial sensors |
Applications
| Portable Sensor Biasing | CMOS Oscillator Reference |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing stable 12 V bias to MEMS pressure sensor amplifier stages in battery-powered environmental monitors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt voltage reference regulating supply to op-amp input stage and ADC driver. Use Value: 0.05 µA leakage avoids depleting coin-cell batteries over multi-year deployments while maintaining ±1.2 V regulation accuracy. |
Use Scenario: Setting frequency-determining voltage for RC-controlled CMOS oscillators in ultra-low-power real-time clock modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision DC reference establishing stable charging threshold for timing capacitor. Use Value: 150 Ω dynamic impedance minimizes frequency drift caused by supply ripple, improving timekeeping stability to ±10 ppm. |
| ADC Reference Divider | Overvoltage Clamp Protection |
Use Scenario: Generating 12 V reference for 16-bit SAR ADC input scaling in handheld test equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-leakage Zener element in resistive divider network feeding ADC reference pin. Use Value: 85 pF capacitance and <0.05 µA leakage preserve signal integrity and reduce settling time errors in high-resolution conversions. |
Use Scenario: Clamping 12 V rail against ESD transients in USB-powered peripheral interfaces. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response shunt protector diverting surge current before IC damage occurs. Use Value: 40 W non-repetitive peak power rating (100 µs pulse) absorbs IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 surges without degradation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener voltage reference applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BZX38450-B12 | ±2 % tolerance (tighter), higher leakage (0.1 µA at 9.1 V), same 12 V nominal | Better regulation accuracy but higher quiescent current draw | Select for precision analog circuits where leakage is less critical than voltage tolerance |
| MMSZ5242B | 12 V nominal, ±5 %, 9.1 V knee voltage, 100 Ω rdiff at 20 mA, SOD-123 package | Larger footprint, higher power rating (500 mW), higher test current (20 mA) | Choose when higher surge handling or thermal margin is required, accepting larger board area |
Compared with BZX38450-C12F, the BZX38450-B12 offers tighter voltage control at the cost of doubled leakage, while MMSZ5242B trades miniaturization for higher power handling and lower dynamic impedance - making the C12F optimal for space-constrained, ultra-low-quiescent systems.
Availability
BZX38450-C12F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable sensor biasing, CMOS oscillator reference, and ADC reference divider applications requiring stable component supply with consistent parametric performance across production batches.
Supply support for BZX38450-C12F 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 focused on high-volume, high-reliability discrete and logic devices, with leadership in advanced packaging and automotive-qualified components.
The BZX38450 series belongs to Nexperia's low-current Zener regulator portfolio, engineered specifically for energy-efficient voltage referencing in battery-powered and space-constrained electronics.
FAQ
What is the maximum reverse voltage before breakdown for BZX38450-C12F?
The BZX38450-C12F exhibits a guaranteed Zener breakdown between 11.4 V and 12.6 V at 50 µA test current. Below 9.1 V, reverse leakage remains ≤0.05 µA; sustained operation above 12.6 V risks exceeding its 300 mW power limit and thermal runaway under unregulated loads.
Can BZX38450-C12F be used in series for higher voltage references?
No - BZX38450-C12F is not characterized or rated for series connection. Its ±5 % tolerance and temperature coefficient mismatch would cause uneven voltage distribution and thermal instability. Use a single higher-voltage Zener (e.g., BZX38450-C24) instead.
How does the SOD323 package affect thermal performance?
Mounted on standard FR4 PCB, the SOD323 package delivers 415 K/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance. This limits continuous power to ~120 mW at 85 °C ambient. For full 300 mW operation, use copper pour or thermal vias beneath the cathode pad to improve heat spreading.
Is BZX38450-C12F suitable for automotive applications?
No - this device is not AEC-Q200 qualified. Nexperia explicitly states non-automotive qualification in its legal disclaimers. For automotive use, select the AEC-Q200 qualified PZM series or BZX84-C12 variants with appropriate qualification documentation.
BZX38450-C12F Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- BZX38450
- Package/Case:
- SC-76, SOD-323
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Voltage - Zener (Nom) (Vz):
- 12 V
- Tolerance:
- ±5%
- Power - Max:
- 300 mW
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 25 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 50 nA @ 9.1 V
- Voltage - Forward (Vf) (Max) @ If:
- 900 mV @ 10 mA
- Operating Temperature:
- 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOD-323
BZX38450-C12F FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BZX38450-C12F through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BZX38450-C12F 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 BZX38450-C12F reliable?
The price and inventory of BZX38450-C12F are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BZX38450-C12F is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BZX38450-C12F?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BZX38450-C12F transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BZX38450-C12F?
BZX38450-C12F orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BZX38450-C12F 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 BZX38450-C12F?
For technical support, including BZX38450-C12F datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BZX38450-C12F requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BZX38450-C12F is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BZX38450-C12F 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 BZX38450-C12F meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BZX38450-C12F?
All BZX38450-C12F units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BZX38450-C12F, 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 BZX38450-C12F part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BZX38450-C12F:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BZX38450-C12F Tags

-
MMBZ5240B-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BZT52C5V6T-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMSZ5231B-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BZT52C15-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BZX84C3V3LT1G
onsemi

-
MMSZ5245BS-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMSZ4682T1G
onsemi

-
BZT52C15S-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MM5Z5V1ST1G
onsemi

-
SMAJ4744A-TP
Micro Commercial Co

-
BZT52C3V6LP-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
SMAZ12-13-F
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

