Nexperia USA Inc. BZX384-C22-QX

Overview

BZX384-C22-QX from Nexperia is a ±5 % tolerance Zener voltage regulator diode in SOD323 (SC-76) package, rated for 22 V nominal breakdown voltage at 5 mA, 300 mW total power dissipation, and qualified to AEC-Q101 for automotive voltage reference and overvoltage protection circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BZX384-C22-QX datasheet, BZX384-C22-QX pinout, BZX384-C22-QX application, or BZX384-C22-QX equivalent, key selection criteria include its 22 V Zener voltage tolerance (±5 %), low thermal resistance (110 K/W junction-to-solder-point), 60 μA reverse current at 17.6 V, and automotive-grade qualification per AEC-Q101.

Technical Context

This device operates as a two-terminal shunt voltage reference, maintaining stable output voltage across load variations by conducting reverse current above its specified Zener knee. Its differential resistance of 250 Ω at 5 mA ensures predictable regulation slope under dynamic load conditions.

The diode exhibits a positive temperature coefficient of +15.4 mV/K at 5 mA, enabling predictable drift compensation in temperature-sensitive bias networks. It supports non-repetitive surge handling up to 1.25 A peak reverse current (100 μs pulse) without degradation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOD323 (SC-76) surface-mount plastic package with 2 leads; cathode marked by bar on top surface; 1.35 mm × 0.85 mm body size; 0.45 mm lead pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BZX384-C22-QX, the BZX384-B22-Q offers tighter voltage control at the expense of reduced production yield margin, while MMSZ5247B-TP trades smaller SOD323 size for higher power and different thermal profile-making each suitable for distinct reliability, layout, or thermal constraints.

Availability

BZX384-C22-QX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive ECU protection, industrial sensor biasing, USB-C overvoltage safeguarding, and medical device voltage monitoring requiring stable component supply with AEC-Q101 compliance.

Supply support for BZX384-C22-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 specializing in high-performance, reliable discrete and logic devices, with leadership in automotive-qualified components and energy-efficient solutions.

The BZX384-Q series belongs to Nexperia's automotive-grade Zener diode product line, engineered specifically for robust voltage regulation and transient suppression in harsh-environment electronic control units.

FAQ

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

The BZX384-C22-QX has a nominal Zener voltage of 22 V at 5 mA test current, with a guaranteed minimum breakdown voltage of 20.8 V and maximum of 23.3 V under specified conditions. It is not rated for continuous operation above 23.3 V in regulation mode; sustained reverse bias beyond this range risks thermal runaway if power dissipation exceeds 300 mW.

How does the ±5 % tolerance affect circuit design compared to tighter-tolerance variants?

The ±5 % tolerance means the actual Zener voltage may vary between 20.8 V and 23.3 V at 5 mA. Designers must ensure downstream circuitry (e.g., comparators or regulators) accommodates this 2.5 V window-such as by adjusting resistor divider ratios or setting wider fault detection thresholds-unlike ±2 % versions which constrain variation to ±0.44 V.

Can this diode be used in parallel for higher power handling?

No-Zener diodes exhibit negative temperature coefficients below ~5 V and positive above, but even within the same batch, slight V_Z mismatches cause current hogging. Parallel connection of BZX384-C22-QX units risks thermal instability and premature failure; use a single higher-rated device like MMSZ5247B-TP instead for >300 mW needs.

Is the SOD323 package compatible with standard reflow soldering profiles?

Yes-the SOD323 footprint matches IPC-7351B standard for SC-76 packages. Nexperia specifies a reflow profile with peak temperature ≤260 °C, 60-second duration above 217 °C, and ramp rates within JEDEC J-STD-020 limits. The 0.45 mm lead pitch and 1.35 mm × 0.85 mm body are fully supported by automated placement and reflow equipment.