Nexperia USA Inc. BZX8450-C18VL
- Part No.:
- BZX8450-C18VL
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
BZX8450-C18VL.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 18V 250MW TO236AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,018
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Product details
Overview
BZX8450-C18VL from Nexperia is a low-current Zener voltage regulator diode in SOT23 package, providing 18 V nominal regulation at 50 µA test current, with ±5 % tolerance, 250 mW power dissipation, and 225 Ω differential resistance at 5 mA - used for precision biasing and voltage reference in portable battery-powered sensor nodes and low-power microcontroller reset circuits.
For engineers reviewing the BZX8450-C18VL datasheet, BZX8450-C18VL pinout, BZX8450-C18VL application, or BZX8450-C18VL equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, terminal mapping, thermal behavior, real-world use cases, and validated alternative parts for low-current Zener regulation design.
Technical Context
This device operates as a two-terminal shunt voltage regulator, maintaining stable 18 V output across load variations by conducting reverse current above its breakdown threshold. Its specified test current of 50 µA enables ultra-low quiescent operation, while intentional leakage optimization (per AN90031) supports fast switching transients and reduced noise in signal conditioning paths.
The BZX8450-C18VL exhibits a positive temperature coefficient of +12.4 mV/K and 70 pF capacitance at 0 V, making it suitable for DC reference generation rather than high-frequency AC coupling. Thermal resistance from junction to ambient is 500 K/W on FR4 PCB, limiting continuous power handling without derating above 25 °C ambient.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nominal Zener Voltage | 18 V at IZ = 50 µA - defines primary regulation point for low-bias applications |
| Tolerance | ±5 % - allows predictable voltage margin in non-critical reference designs |
| Differential Resistance | 225 Ω at IZ = 5 mA - determines regulation stiffness under varying load current |
| Forward Voltage | ≤ 0.9 V at IF = 10 mA - ensures minimal forward conduction loss in dual-direction protection schemes |
| Total Power Dissipation | 250 mW at Tamb ≤ 25 °C - sets maximum steady-state power budget on standard FR4 PCB |
| Reverse Current | ≤ 0.05 µA at VR = 13.6 V - confirms tight leakage control below regulation knee |
| Temperature Coefficient | +12.4 mV/K - quantifies drift magnitude per degree Celsius rise in junction temperature |
Pinout & Package
Package: SOT23 plastic surface-mount package (2.9 mm × 1.3 mm × 1.0 mm body, 1.9 mm pin pitch), optimized for automated assembly and space-constrained PCB layouts.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anode (A) | Connected to lower-potential node; reverse-biased during regulation |
| 2 | Not Connected (n.c.) | Internally unconnected; must remain floating - no PCB trace or pad required |
| 3 | Cathode (K) | Connected to higher-potential node; carries reverse current during regulation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Low test current operation | Specified at 50 µA - enables use in µA-level standby circuits without compromising regulation accuracy |
| Optimized leakage profile | Intentional minor leakage rise per AN90031 - improves transient response and reduces broadband noise in analog front-ends |
| Stable temperature coefficient | +12.4 mV/K - predictable drift behavior simplifies compensation in temperature-sensitive references |
| Compact SOT23 footprint | 2.9 mm × 1.3 mm area - fits high-density layouts where larger DO-35 or SOD-123 packages are prohibitive |
Applications
| Portable Sensor Node Power Rail | Microcontroller Reset Circuit Reference |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing stable 18 V reference for analog-to-digital converter (ADC) biasing in battery-operated environmental sensors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt voltage reference establishing precise input range for 12-bit ADC sampling. Use Value: Enables <1 LSB error over 0–50 °C due to known +12.4 mV/K drift and low 225 Ω dynamic impedance. |
Use Scenario: Generating clean, low-noise 18 V threshold for supervisory IC reset assertion in ultra-low-power MCU systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision voltage threshold element triggering reset when main supply drops below regulation level. Use Value: Delivers sub-µA leakage (<0.05 µA at 13.6 V) to prevent false resets during deep-sleep modes. |
| Low-Power Op-Amp Bias Network | IoT Edge Device Signal Conditioning |
Use Scenario: Supplying matched bias voltages to rail-to-rail op-amps in wearable health monitors powered by coin cells. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role component: forward-conducting anode for supply clamping and reverse-biased cathode for reference generation. Use Value: Leverages ≤0.9 V forward drop and 18 V Zener knee to support bidirectional protection and stable offset setting. |
Use Scenario: Stabilizing local 18 V supply for RF front-end amplifiers in LPWAN gateways operating on intermittent solar charging. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-quiescent shunt regulator maintaining clean supply despite wide input variation (12–24 V). Use Value: Maintains regulation with only 50 µA test current, minimizing drain on energy-harvested storage capacitors. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener regulation applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BZX84-C18 | Same 18 V ±5 % rating but rated at 300 mW Ptot; higher leakage (≤0.1 µA at 13.6 V); no AN90031 leakage optimization | Higher power margin suits moderate-load regulators; less suitable for µA-level biasing | Select when board layout allows larger thermal mass or when tighter leakage is not critical |
| MMSZ5245B | 18 V ±5 %, 500 mW rating, 200 Ω rdiff at 20 mA; specified at 20 mA test current, not 50 µA | Designed for higher-current regulation; requires ≥20 mA bias for spec compliance | Choose only if circuit can sustain >20 mA Zener current and needs lower dynamic impedance |
Compared with BZX8450-C18VL, BZX84-C18 offers higher power headroom but looser leakage control, while MMSZ5245B delivers lower dynamic impedance only at significantly higher bias current - making BZX8450-C18VL uniquely suited for ultra-low-current, noise-sensitive reference roles.
Availability
BZX8450-C18VL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable sensor nodes, microcontroller reset circuits, low-power op-amp bias networks, and IoT edge device signal conditioning requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term continuity.
Supply support for BZX8450-C18VL 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 essential efficiency technologies, delivering high-performance, reliable discrete and logic devices for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.
The BZX8450 series belongs to Nexperia's low-current Zener regulator product line, engineered specifically for battery-powered and energy-constrained applications demanding precision regulation at microampere bias levels.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous reverse current the BZX8450-C18VL can handle?
The device supports up to 200 mA forward current per absolute maximum ratings, but its Zener regulation region is characterized at 50 µA test current and 5 mA operating current. At 5 mA, differential resistance is 225 Ω and power dissipation is 90 mW - well within the 250 mW total limit. Sustained operation above 5 mA requires thermal derating based on 500 K/W junction-to-ambient resistance.
Does Pin 2 (n.c.) require PCB routing or grounding?
No - Pin 2 is internally not connected and must remain electrically floating. The datasheet explicitly states "n.c." (not connected), and the SOT23 outline shows no internal bond wire to this terminal. PCB layout should omit any copper trace, solder mask opening, or via at this location to avoid unintended parasitic coupling or assembly defects.
How does the +12.4 mV/K temperature coefficient affect accuracy over −40 °C to +85 °C?
Over that 125 K range, the Zener voltage shifts by +1.55 V (12.4 mV/K × 125 K), resulting in a total span of 16.45 V to 19.55 V. This 17.2 % deviation is typical for 18 V Zeners; system-level calibration or drift-compensating circuitry is required for applications needing better than ±1 % stability across temperature.
Can BZX8450-C18VL replace BZX84-C18 in existing designs?
Yes, with verification: both share identical 18 V ±5 % rating, SOT23 package, and pinout. However, BZX8450-C18VL has lower leakage (<0.05 µA vs. ≤0.1 µA) and is optimized for fast switching per AN90031. If the original design relies on higher leakage for timing or noise filtering, functional validation is required before substitution.
BZX8450-C18VL 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):
- 18 V
- Tolerance:
- ±5%
- Power - Max:
- 250 mW
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 45 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 50 nA @ 13.6 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-C18VL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for BZX8450-C18VL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for BZX8450-C18VL 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-C18VL reliable?
The price and inventory of BZX8450-C18VL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for BZX8450-C18VL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for BZX8450-C18VL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for BZX8450-C18VL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for BZX8450-C18VL?
BZX8450-C18VL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your BZX8450-C18VL 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-C18VL?
For technical support, including BZX8450-C18VL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your BZX8450-C18VL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that BZX8450-C18VL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All BZX8450-C18VL 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-C18VL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of BZX8450-C18VL?
All BZX8450-C18VL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with BZX8450-C18VL, 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-C18VL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for BZX8450-C18VL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
BZX8450-C18VL Tags

-
MMBZ5240B-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BZT52C5V6T-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMSZ5231B-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BZT52C15-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
BZX84C3V3LT1G
onsemi

-
MMSZ5245BS-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MMSZ4682T1G
onsemi

-
BZT52C15S-7-F
Diodes Incorporated

-
MM5Z5V1ST1G
onsemi

-
SMAJ4744A-TP
Micro Commercial Co

-
BZT52C3V6LP-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
SMAZ12-13-F
Diodes Incorporated
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