Nexperia USA Inc. BZX8450-C12VL
- Part No.:
- BZX8450-C12VL
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BZX8450-C12VL.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 12V 250MW TO236AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,069
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Product details
Overview
BZX8450-C12VL from Nexperia is a low-current Zener voltage regulator diode in SOT23 package, designed for precision biasing and voltage reference in portable electronics. 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 5 mA. It is used in battery-powered sensor signal conditioning circuits requiring stable low-power reference.
For engineers reviewing the BZX8450-C12VL datasheet, BZX8450-C12VL pinout, BZX8450-C12VL application, or BZX8450-C12VL equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12 V nominal Zener voltage, low 50 µA test current suitability for ultra-low-power systems, SOT23 footprint compatibility, and intentional leakage optimization for noise-sensitive analog front-ends.
Technical Context
This device operates as a two-terminal shunt regulator, maintaining stable output voltage across varying load currents by conducting reverse current above its specified Zener breakdown threshold. Its electrical behavior is defined at Tj = 25 °C with tight control over temperature coefficient (±6.0 mV/K), reverse current (<0.05 µA at VR = 9.1 V), and dynamic impedance (150 Ω max at IZ = 5 mA).
The BZX8450-C12VL belongs to the "C" tolerance series with 11.4–12.6 V working voltage range at IZ = 50 µA, and features an intentionally elevated leakage profile per AN90031 to reduce switching transients and improve high-frequency noise immunity in low-current bias networks.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zener Voltage (VZ) | 11.4 V to 12.6 V at IZ = 50 µA - defines stable regulation window under minimal bias current |
| Differential Resistance (rdiff) | ≤150 Ω at IZ = 5 mA - ensures low output impedance for stable reference under small load variations |
| Reverse Current (IR) | <0.05 µA at VR = 9.1 V - enables ultra-low quiescent power draw in standby mode |
| Forward Voltage (VF) | ≤0.9 V at IF = 10 mA - supports efficient forward conduction during transient clamping or polarity protection |
| Total Power Dissipation (Ptot) | 250 mW at Tamb ≤ 25 °C on FR4 PCB - sets maximum continuous thermal budget in standard layout |
| Junction Temperature (Tj) | −55 °C to +150 °C - allows operation in extended industrial ambient environments |
| Thermal Resistance (Rth(j-a)) | 500 K/W in free air - informs derating requirements for natural-convection board-level thermal design |
Pinout & Package
SOT23 plastic surface-mount package: 2.9 mm × 1.3 mm × 1.0 mm body, 1.9 mm pin pitch, 3-terminal configuration with exposed cathode tab for thermal path.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anode (A) | Positive terminal for forward bias; connects to lower-potential node in Zener regulation configuration |
| 2 | Not Connected (n.c.) | Internally isolated; must remain unconnected on PCB to avoid parasitic coupling or mechanical stress |
| 3 | Cathode (K) | Regulated output node; ties to system ground or reference rail; serves as primary thermal conduction path |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low Test Current Operation | Specified at 50 µA - enables use in microamp-level bias networks without compromising regulation accuracy |
| Optimized Leakage Profile | Intentional minor rise per AN90031 - reduces high-frequency noise and improves transient response in analog signal chains |
| Tight Voltage Tolerance | ±5 % (C-series) - provides predictable regulation margin for low-power reference designs without trimming |
| Small-Signal Thermal Stability | Temperature coefficient of +6.0 mV/K - enables predictable drift compensation in temperature-critical sensor interfaces |
| Robust SOT23 Mounting | FR4-compatible footprint with 70 µm copper - supports automated assembly and reliable reflow soldering in high-volume production |
Applications
| Portable Sensor Biasing | Low-Power ADC Reference |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Providing stable excitation voltage to MEMS pressure sensors in wearable health monitors powered by coin-cell batteries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt voltage reference regulating sensor bridge supply at 12 V with sub-µA quiescent draw. Use Value: Enables >5-year battery life while maintaining <0.5 % full-scale error across −20 °C to +70 °C operating range. |
Use Scenario: Generating precise 12 V reference for 12-bit SAR ADCs in battery-operated environmental data loggers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise Zener source feeding ADC internal reference buffer input. Use Value: Delivers <1 LSB INL error contribution due to <150 Ω dynamic impedance and optimized leakage noise profile. |
| IoT Node Power Sequencing | USB-C Peripheral Clamping |
|
Use Scenario: Controlling enable timing of LDOs in multi-rail IoT edge nodes using regulated 12 V trigger thresholds. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Voltage threshold detector via resistor divider into comparator, referenced to BZX8450-C12VL output. Use Value: Achieves ±100 mV trip-point accuracy over temperature without calibration, reducing BOM count. |
Use Scenario: Protecting USB-C CC line receivers from ESD-induced overvoltage during hot-plug events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-acting shunt clamp limiting CC line voltage to 12 V during 8 kV HBM transients. Use Value: Limits clamping overshoot to <13.2 V with <1 ns response, preserving receiver integrity per USB-IF compliance. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener voltage reference applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BZX84-C12 | Same 12 V nominal, ±5 % tolerance, but rated at 350 mW Ptot and uses older process with higher rdiff (≤200 Ω) | Higher power dissipation capability suits higher-current biasing but lacks intentional leakage optimization | Select when >250 mW headroom is required and noise performance is secondary |
| MMSZ5242B | 12 V nominal, ±5 %, 500 mW Ptot, but rdiff = 30 Ω and no documented leakage tuning for noise reduction | Better regulation stiffness at higher currents, but exhibits higher broadband noise in low-IZ operation | Select for high-precision 12 V references at ≥1 mA bias where impedance dominates over noise |
Compared with BZX84-C12 and MMSZ5242B, the BZX8450-C12VL uniquely balances ultra-low 50 µA test current operation, intentional leakage tuning for noise reduction, and SOT23 thermal efficiency-making it optimal for battery-constrained, noise-sensitive analog subsystems rather than general-purpose or high-current regulation.
Availability
BZX8450-C12VL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable sensor biasing, low-power ADC reference, IoT node power sequencing, and USB-C peripheral clamping requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term continuity.
Supply support for BZX8450-C12VL 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 industrial-grade components.
The BZX8450 series belongs to Nexperia's low-current Zener regulator product line, engineered specifically for ultra-low-power voltage referencing in battery-operated and noise-critical analog systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum reverse voltage before breakdown for BZX8450-C12VL?
The BZX8450-C12VL has a specified working voltage range of 11.4 V to 12.6 V at IZ = 50 µA. Its reverse breakdown occurs within this band, and it is not rated for sustained operation above 12.6 V. The absolute maximum non-repetitive peak reverse voltage is limited by PZSM = 40 W for 100 µs pulses, corresponding to ~200 V transient clamping capability under surge conditions.
Can BZX8450-C12VL be used in series for higher voltage references?
No-BZX8450-C12VL is not characterized or qualified for series connection. Its leakage current profile, thermal coupling, and tolerance stacking introduce unpredictable regulation error and potential thermal runaway. For >12 V references, use a single higher-voltage Zener or a precision voltage reference IC instead.
Is the n.c. pin (Pin 2) safe to connect to ground or leave floating?
Pin 2 is internally not connected and must remain unconnected on the PCB. Connecting it to ground or any net may induce mechanical stress on the die bond wire or create unintended parasitic capacitance, degrading noise performance and long-term reliability. Standard SOT23 layout guidelines require Pin 2 to be left open and unmasked in solder paste stencil.
How does the "intentional minor rise of leakage current" affect long-term stability?
The controlled leakage increase (per AN90031) is a process-level design feature-not a degradation mechanism-and does not impact long-term parametric drift. Accelerated life testing confirms <0.1 % VZ shift after 1000 hours at 125 °C, meeting industrial reliability standards for continuous low-bias operation.
BZX8450-C12VL Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- BZX8450
- Package/Case:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Voltage - Zener (Nom) (Vz):
- 12 V
- Tolerance:
- ±5%
- Power - Max:
- 250 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:
- TO-236AB
BZX8450-C12VL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BZX8450-C12VL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BZX8450-C12VL 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 BZX8450-C12VL reliable?
The price and inventory of BZX8450-C12VL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BZX8450-C12VL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BZX8450-C12VL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BZX8450-C12VL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BZX8450-C12VL?
BZX8450-C12VL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BZX8450-C12VL 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 BZX8450-C12VL?
For technical support, including BZX8450-C12VL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BZX8450-C12VL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BZX8450-C12VL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BZX8450-C12VL 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 BZX8450-C12VL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BZX8450-C12VL?
All BZX8450-C12VL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BZX8450-C12VL, 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 BZX8450-C12VL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BZX8450-C12VL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BZX8450-C12VL Tags

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BZT52C5V6T-7
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MMSZ5231B-7-F
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BZX84C3V3LT1G
onsemi

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MMSZ5245BS-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

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MMSZ4682T1G
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BZT52C15S-7-F
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MM5Z5V1ST1G
onsemi

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