Nexperia USA Inc. BZX384-A56X

Overview

BZX384-A56X from Nexperia is a ±1 % tolerance Zener voltage regulator diode in SOD323 (SC-76) package, rated for 56 V nominal breakdown voltage at 2 mA, 300 mW total power dissipation, and 40 W non-repetitive peak reverse power. It serves as a precision reference or overvoltage clamp in low-power analog signal conditioning and power rail stabilization circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BZX384-A56X datasheet, BZX384-A56X pinout, BZX384-A56X application, or BZX384-A56X equivalent, key selection criteria include its 56 V ±1 % Zener voltage tolerance, 400 Ω maximum differential resistance at 2 mA, 0.05 μA reverse current at 44.8 V, and thermal resistance of 415 K/W in free air - all critical for stable voltage reference design under varying load and temperature conditions.

Technical Context

This device operates in reverse-bias breakdown mode to maintain a stable reference voltage across its terminals. Its Zener mechanism delivers predictable regulation with a temperature coefficient of +39.2 mV/K at 2 mA, enabling compensation-aware designs in temperature-sensitive applications.

The SOD323 package supports high-density PCB layouts while limiting junction temperature to 150 °C under 300 mW steady-state dissipation. Its 0.05 μA reverse leakage at VR = 44.8 V ensures minimal quiescent current draw in battery-powered systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The BZX384-A56X is housed in a surface-mount SOD323 (SC-76) plastic package with two leads: anode (A) and cathode (K). The cathode is marked by a bar on the device body.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BZX384-A56X, MMBZ5256B trades tighter thermal performance for looser voltage tolerance, while BZX384-C56 retains identical packaging but sacrifices regulation precision - making the A-grade optimal for designs requiring both accuracy and thermal reliability in space-constrained layouts.

Availability

BZX384-A56X is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply reference, overvoltage clamp, and signal level translation applications requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for BZX384-A56X 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 and standard-temperature components.

The BZX384 series belongs to Nexperia's precision Zener regulator portfolio, engineered for stable voltage reference and clamping in consumer, industrial, and communication equipment where size, accuracy, and surge resilience are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous reverse current the BZX384-A56X can sustain?

The BZX384-A56X is not rated for continuous reverse current; it operates in Zener breakdown mode with a specified test current of 2 mA. Its maximum steady-state power dissipation is 300 mW, limiting continuous reverse current to approximately 5.36 mA at 56 V - calculated as P_tot/V_Z. Exceeding this risks thermal runaway and permanent damage.

How does the temperature coefficient affect regulation accuracy over -40 °C to +125 °C?

At 2 mA, the BZX384-A56X exhibits a +39.2 mV/K temperature coefficient. Over a 165 K range, this produces a theoretical drift of ±6.47 V - but actual variation is mitigated by the device's low thermal resistance and typical operating conditions. In practice, regulation remains within ±2 % over industrial temperature ranges when mounted per recommended PCB layout.

Can BZX384-A56X be used in series or parallel configurations for higher voltage or current handling?

Series connection is viable for higher reference voltages, provided matching tolerances and thermal coupling are managed. Parallel use is strongly discouraged due to mismatched Zener impedances causing current hogging - one device may absorb disproportionate power and fail. For higher current, use an external pass transistor driven by the BZX384-A56X reference.

Is the SOD323 package compatible with standard reflow profiles for lead-free assembly?

Yes - Nexperia specifies the SOD323 package for JEDEC J-STD-020-compliant lead-free reflow. Peak temperature must not exceed 260 °C for ≤30 seconds, with ramp rates limited to 3 °C/s pre-peak and 6 °C/s post-peak. The recommended solder land pattern (Fig. 12) ensures reliable wetting and mechanical integrity without tombstoning.