Nexperia USA Inc. BZX8450-C9V1-QVL

Overview

BZX8450-C9V1-QVL from Nexperia is a low-current Zener voltage regulator diode in SOT23 package, designed for precision biasing and voltage reference in automotive and portable electronics. It delivers 9.1 V nominal regulation at 50 µA test current, with ±5 % tolerance, 100 Ω differential resistance at 5 mA, and AEC-Q101 qualification for under-hood applications.

For engineers reviewing the BZX8450-C9V1-QVL datasheet, BZX8450-C9V1-QVL pinout, BZX8450-C9V1-QVL application, or BZX8450-C9V1-QVL equivalent, key selection criteria include low-leakage operation at microamp bias, thermal stability in compact PCB layouts, automotive-grade reliability validation, and compatibility with standard SOT23 reflow footprints.

Technical Context

This Zener diode operates in reverse breakdown mode with a specified working voltage of 8.65 V to 9.56 V at 50 µA, exhibiting a positive temperature coefficient of +3.8 mV/K. Its low 50 µA test current enables stable regulation in battery-powered systems where quiescent current must be minimized.

The device features intentional minor leakage optimization per AN90031 for fast switching transients and reduced noise coupling. Thermal resistance from junction to solder point is 330 K/W, supporting reliable operation up to 150 °C junction temperature when mounted on FR4 PCB with standard footprint.

Key Specifications

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 high-density PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with BZX8450-C9V1-QVL, the BZX84-C9V1,115 offers identical electrical specs but omits automotive qualification and leakage tuning, while MMSZ5240B-TP trades precision and qualification for higher power headroom - making the QVL variant uniquely suited for space-constrained, noise-sensitive, and AEC-compliant designs.

Availability

BZX8450-C9V1-QVL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive sensor modules, portable medical devices, industrial 4–20 mA transmitters, and isolated power supply feedback networks requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term continuity.

Supply support for BZX8450-C9V1-QVL 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 logic, discrete, and MOSFET solutions, with core R&D and manufacturing in Europe and Asia.

The BZX8450-Q series belongs to Nexperia's automotive-qualified Zener portfolio, engineered specifically for low-current, low-noise voltage reference needs in harsh-environment electronics - emphasizing AEC-Q101 compliance, thermal robustness, and microamp-level regulation stability.

FAQ

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

The BZX8450-C9V1-QVL has a nominal Zener voltage of 9.1 V, with guaranteed breakdown occurring between 8.65 V and 9.56 V at 50 µA test current. Its absolute maximum non-repetitive peak reverse voltage is not defined separately - instead, it is limited by the 40 W non-repetitive surge rating at 100 µs pulse width, corresponding to ~190 V peak for a 200 mA surge event. Continuous operation above 9.56 V will cause excessive power dissipation beyond its 250 mW rating.

Can this Zener diode be used in forward-biased applications?

Yes - the BZX8450-C9V1-QVL exhibits a forward voltage of ≤ 0.9 V at 10 mA, making it suitable for low-drop rectification or polarity protection in low-current paths. However, its primary design intent is reverse-bias regulation; forward conduction is characterized only for ESD and fault-condition analysis, not for sustained forward operation. For dedicated forward applications, a Schottky diode would offer lower VF and better efficiency.

How does the "C" grade differ from the "B" grade in the BZX8450-Q series?

The "C" grade (e.g., BZX8450-C9V1-QVL) specifies ±5 % tolerance and is optimized for fast switching and low noise via intentional minor leakage current increase, per application note AN90031. The "B" grade (e.g., BZX8450-B9V1-Q) offers tighter ±2 % tolerance but lacks the leakage tuning - resulting in slower transient response and higher susceptibility to noise coupling in feedback loops. Both grades share identical package, thermal specs, and AEC-Q101 qualification.

Is the NC pin (Pin 2) required to be left unconnected on the PCB?

Yes - Pin 2 is internally not connected and must remain electrically floating. No PCB trace, solder mask opening, or thermal pad should be assigned to this terminal. Connecting it risks unintended parasitic coupling or mechanical stress on the die bond wire. The SOT23 footprint provided in Figure 10 (reflow) and Figure 11 (wave) explicitly excludes solder paste or copper for Pin 2, confirming its isolation requirement.