onsemi BZX55C5V6_T26A

Overview

BZX55C5V6_T26A from Fairchild Semiconductor is a 5.6 V, ±5% tolerance Zener diode in DO-35 glass package, rated for 500 mW power dissipation at 75°C with 25 Ω dynamic impedance at 5 mA test current and 0.1 μA maximum reverse leakage at 4.2 V. It provides precise voltage regulation in low-power reference and protection circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BZX55C5V6_T26A datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include zener voltage accuracy, thermal derating behavior, cathode identification via band marking, and compatibility with through-hole PCB layouts requiring DO-35 footprint compliance.

Technical Context

The BZX55C5V6_T26A operates as a two-terminal voltage reference device, relying on controlled reverse-biased avalanche breakdown to maintain stable output voltage under varying load and temperature conditions. Its 5.6 V nominal zener voltage is specified at 5 mA test current with ±5% tolerance and 25 Ω dynamic impedance, ensuring predictable regulation within industrial ambient ranges.

Designed for leaded through-hole mounting, the DO-35 package features a color-coded cathode band and supports operation from –65°C to +200°C junction temperature. Power dissipation is limited to 500 mW at TL ≤ 75°C, derating linearly by 4.0 mW/°C above that point, aligning with standard thermal management practices for discrete Zener applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DO-35 glass axial package with cathode identified by a single color band near one lead end; no polarity-sensitive internal structure beyond anode/cathode terminals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 1N4734A and ON Semiconductor's BZX55C5V6, the BZX55C5V6_T26A offers identical voltage specification and DO-35 compatibility with Fairchild's documented thermal derating curve, making it optimal for space-constrained industrial boards requiring proven high-temperature reliability.

Availability

BZX55C5V6_T26A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for voltage reference, overvoltage protection, and linear regulator feedback applications requiring stable component supply across industrial control, sensor interface, and power management designs.

Supply support for BZX55C5V6_T26A 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

Fairchild Semiconductor was a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in power management, signal conditioning, and discrete components before its acquisition by ON Semiconductor in 2016.

The BZX55 series was developed as a general-purpose Zener diode family targeting cost-sensitive, high-reliability applications in industrial instrumentation and power supply design, emphasizing DO-35 mechanical robustness and tight voltage tolerance.

FAQ

What is the zener voltage tolerance of BZX55C5V6_T26A?

The BZX55C5V6_T26A has a ±5% zener voltage tolerance, meaning its actual breakdown voltage falls between 5.2 V and 6.0 V when measured at 5 mA test current and 25°C ambient. This tolerance is guaranteed per the Fairchild BZX55C2V4–BZX55C56 datasheet Rev. D1 and applies directly to the BZX55C5V6_T26A variant. The tolerance band ensures consistent performance across production lots without requiring individual calibration.

Does BZX55C5V6_T26A support high-temperature operation?

Yes, BZX55C5V6_T26A supports junction temperatures from –65°C to +200°C and is rated for 500 mW power dissipation at lead temperature ≤ 75°C, derating linearly by 4.0 mW/°C above that point. Its DO-35 glass package contributes to thermal stability, and the device maintains specified electrical parameters across this full range, making it suitable for under-hood automotive and industrial environments where ambient exceeds 100°C.

How is cathode identification marked on BZX55C5V6_T26A?

The cathode of BZX55C5V6_T26A is identified by a single color band located near one lead end of the DO-35 glass package. This marking follows Fairchild's standard top-marking convention for the BZX55 series, where the band denotes the cathode terminal regardless of orientation during PCB insertion. Correct polarity must be observed to ensure proper reverse-bias operation and avoid forward conduction failure.

What is the maximum reverse leakage current for BZX55C5V6_T26A?

The maximum reverse leakage current for BZX55C5V6_T26A is 0.1 μA at 4.2 V reverse voltage and 25°C ambient, as specified in the Fairchild BZX55C2V4–BZX55C56 datasheet. This low leakage ensures minimal loading on high-impedance reference nodes and preserves accuracy in precision analog circuits such as sensor biasing and comparator threshold setting where current draw must remain sub-microampere.

Can BZX55C5V6_T26A be used in surface-mount designs?

No, BZX55C5V6_T26A is not suitable for surface-mount designs because it uses a DO-35 axial glass package intended for through-hole mounting. It lacks solder pads or gull-wing leads required for reflow assembly. For SMT equivalents, engineers should consider devices like MMBZ5232B (SOT-23) or BZX84-C5V6 (SOT-23), which provide matching 5.6 V zener characteristics but require different PCB land patterns and thermal validation.