Nexperia USA Inc. BZX38450-C12-QF
- Part No.:
- BZX38450-C12-QF
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- SC-76, SOD-323
- Datasheet:
-
BZX38450-C12-QF.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 12V 300MW SOD323
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,009
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Product details
Overview
BZX38450-C12-QF from Nexperia is a low-current Zener voltage regulator diode in SOD323 (SC-76) package, rated for 12 V nominal working voltage with ±5 % tolerance, 300 mW total power dissipation, and specified at 50 µA test current - ideal for precision biasing and low-power voltage reference in automotive sensor interfaces and portable battery management circuits.
For engineers reviewing the BZX38450-C12-QF datasheet, BZX38450-C12-QF pinout, BZX38450-C12-QF application, or BZX38450-C12-QF equivalent, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q101 qualification, intentional leakage optimization for noise reduction, thermal resistance of 110 K/W (junction-to-solder point), and differential resistance of ≤150 Ω at 5 mA.
Technical Context
This device operates as a two-terminal shunt voltage regulator, maintaining stable reverse breakdown at 12 V across a 50 µA to 5 mA operating range. Its differential resistance of ≤150 Ω at IZ = 5 mA and temperature coefficient of +6.0 mV/K ensure predictable regulation under varying load and ambient conditions.
The cathode-anode configuration supports standard series-resistor biasing in low-current reference paths. Its optimized leakage profile (per AN90031) reduces switching transients and improves signal integrity in high-impedance analog front-ends used in automotive ECUs and IoT sensor nodes.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nominal Zener Voltage | 12 V (min 11.4 V, max 12.6 V at IZ = 50 µA - defines precise regulation point for reference circuits) |
| Tolerance | ±5 % (C-series grade - enables cost-optimized design where tighter tolerance is not required) |
| Total Power Dissipation | 300 mW at Tamb ≤ 25 °C on FR4 PCB - sets maximum continuous bias resistor power limit) |
| Differential Resistance | ≤150 Ω at IZ = 5 mA - determines output impedance and load regulation error) |
| Forward Voltage | ≤0.9 V at IF = 10 mA - defines conduction loss when used in forward-biased protection or clamping roles) |
| Junction Temperature Limit | 150 °C - constrains maximum allowable ambient + self-heating in sealed automotive enclosures) |
| Thermal Resistance (j–sp) | 110 K/W - quantifies temperature rise per watt at cathode solder point, critical for thermal layout) |
Pinout & Package
Package: SOD323 (SC-76), surface-mounted plastic package; 2 leads; 1.3 mm pitch; 1.7 mm × 1.25 mm × 0.95 mm body. Cathode identified by marking bar.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cathode (K) | Connected to regulated output node; reverse-biased terminal where Zener breakdown occurs |
| 2 | Anode (A) | Connected to ground or lower-potential rail; completes bias path for shunt regulation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control modules and ADAS sensor supplies |
| Low test current specification | Rated at 50 µA - enables ultra-low quiescent current operation in battery-backed systems |
| Optimized leakage profile | Intentional minor leakage rise per AN90031 - reduces switching noise in high-frequency sensing circuits |
| Small-footprint SOD323 package | 1.7 mm × 1.25 mm footprint - supports high-density PCB layouts in space-constrained modules |
| Stable temperature coefficient | +6.0 mV/K - ensures predictable VZ drift over −40 °C to +125 °C operating range |
Applications
| Automotive Cabin Sensor Reference | Portable Medical Device Bias Supply |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing stable 12 V reference for MEMS pressure and humidity sensors in HVAC control units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt voltage regulator establishing fixed bias point for analog signal conditioning amplifiers. Use Value: ±5 % tolerance and AEC-Q101 qualification ensure long-term stability and compliance in 15-year vehicle lifecycles. |
Use Scenario: Generating low-power reference voltage for ADC front-end in handheld glucose meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-current Zener reference replacing higher-power alternatives to extend battery life. Use Value: 50 µA test current enables operation from coin-cell batteries for >2 years without recharge. |
| Industrial PLC Input Protection | IoT Node Voltage Clamp |
Use Scenario: Clamping transient overvoltage on 24 V digital input channels in factory automation controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reverse-biased Zener acting as fast-acting overvoltage limiter during ESD events. Use Value: 300 mW power rating and 150 Ω dynamic impedance provide repeatable clamping at <100 ns response. |
Use Scenario: Stabilizing supply rail for ultra-low-power microcontrollers in NB-IoT asset trackers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision shunt regulator maintaining clean 12 V rail despite Li-SOCl₂ battery voltage decay. Use Value: Optimized leakage behavior minimizes standby current while preserving noise immunity in RF-sensitive designs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener voltage regulation applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BZX38450-B12-Q | ±2 % tolerance (vs. ±5 %); lower differential resistance (≤150 Ω vs. ≤150 Ω typical, but tighter distribution) | Required where tighter regulation accuracy is needed in precision instrumentation | Select B12-Q only if system-level calibration budget demands <±0.24 V variation at 12 V |
| MMSZ5242B-TP | Same 12 V nominal, ±5 %, but SOD-123 package (larger footprint, 2.0 mm × 1.25 mm) and higher Ptot (500 mW) | Suitable for higher-power industrial regulators where thermal margin is prioritized over board area | Choose MMSZ5242B-TP only when PCB layout allows larger footprint and thermal design requires >300 mW headroom |
Compared with BZX38450-B12-Q, the C12-Q trades absolute accuracy for cost and fits tighter layouts; versus MMSZ5242B-TP, it sacrifices power handling for miniaturization and automotive qualification - making it optimal for space- and qualification-constrained embedded systems.
Availability
BZX38450-C12-QF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, portable medical devices, industrial PLC inputs, and IoT node voltage regulation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for BZX38450-C12-QF 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 automotive-qualified components and energy-efficient solutions.
The BZX38450-Q series belongs to Nexperia's AEC-Q101-qualified Zener regulator portfolio, designed specifically for low-current, noise-sensitive voltage reference and protection functions in automotive and industrial edge electronics.
FAQ
What is the maximum reverse current (IR) at 11.4 V for BZX38450-C12-QF?
At VR = 11.4 V (the minimum specified Zener voltage), the reverse current is ≤0.05 µA at Tamb = 25 °C. This ultra-low leakage ensures minimal parasitic loading in high-impedance reference networks and preserves battery life in always-on monitoring circuits.
Can BZX38450-C12-QF be used in parallel for higher current capability?
No - Zener diodes exhibit manufacturing spread in breakdown voltage, causing current hogging and thermal runaway when paralleled. For higher current, use a single higher-power Zener or an active shunt regulator; the BZX38450-C12-QF is strictly rated for ≤250 mA forward current and must operate within its 300 mW dissipation limit.
Is the SOD323 package compatible with standard reflow profiles for lead-free assembly?
Yes - the SOD323 package is qualified for JEDEC J-STD-020D-compliant lead-free reflow, with peak temperature up to 260 °C. The recommended footprint (Fig. 10) uses 0.5 mm × 0.6 mm solder lands and 0.6 mm solder resist openings to ensure reliable wetting and mechanical strength.
How does the "intentional minor rise of leakage current" improve performance?
Per Application Note AN90031, this controlled leakage enhances carrier sweep-out during turn-off, reducing minority-carrier storage time and associated switching noise - particularly beneficial in high-frequency sensor biasing and fast-settling ADC reference circuits where transient-induced errors degrade measurement accuracy.
BZX38450-C12-QF 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:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOD-323
BZX38450-C12-QF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BZX38450-C12-QF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BZX38450-C12-QF 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-C12-QF reliable?
The price and inventory of BZX38450-C12-QF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BZX38450-C12-QF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BZX38450-C12-QF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BZX38450-C12-QF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BZX38450-C12-QF?
BZX38450-C12-QF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BZX38450-C12-QF 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-C12-QF?
For technical support, including BZX38450-C12-QF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BZX38450-C12-QF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BZX38450-C12-QF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BZX38450-C12-QF 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-C12-QF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BZX38450-C12-QF?
All BZX38450-C12-QF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BZX38450-C12-QF, 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-C12-QF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BZX38450-C12-QF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BZX38450-C12-QF Tags

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