Diodes Incorporated BZX84C15-7-F

Overview

BZX84C15-7-F from Diodes Incorporated is a 15V, 350mW surface-mount Zener diode in SOT23 package, designed for precision voltage regulation and overvoltage protection in low-power circuits. It delivers a nominal Zener voltage of 15V at 5mA test current, with ±3.6V tolerance (13.8–15.6V), 30Ω dynamic impedance at 5mA, and <0.1µA reverse leakage at 10.5V, commonly used in power supply feedback loops and reference voltage generation.

For engineers reviewing the BZX84C15-7-F datasheet, BZX84C15-7-F pinout, BZX84C15-7-F application, or BZX84C15-7-F equivalent, key selection criteria include Zener voltage accuracy, thermal resistance (357°C/W), low leakage at rated VR, SOT23 footprint compatibility, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-grade reliability.

Technical Context

This Zener diode operates in reverse breakdown mode to maintain stable voltage across its terminals under varying load or input conditions. Its planar die construction ensures consistent breakdown characteristics and low noise performance, while the SOT23 package enables high-density PCB layouts and compatibility with automated pick-and-place assembly.

The device exhibits a negative temperature coefficient of −2.7mV/°C near 15V, enabling predictable drift compensation in temperature-sensitive references. With 350mW maximum power dissipation at ambient temperature and derating above 25°C, it supports continuous operation in compact industrial and automotive control modules without forced cooling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOT23 - three-terminal plastic-molded case with matte tin-plated Alloy 42 leadframe, UL 94V-0 rated, moisture sensitivity level 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MMBZ5245B-7-F and BZX84-C15,115, the BZX84C15-7-F uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, tighter VZ tolerance (±1.2V), and documented green material compliance-making it the preferred choice for safety-critical automotive and long-lifecycle industrial designs.

Availability

BZX84C15-7-F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body control modules, industrial sensor interfaces, and consumer power adapter feedback circuits requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for BZX84C15-7-F 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

Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, headquartered in Plano, Texas, with design, manufacturing, and sales operations across Asia, Europe, and North America.

The BZX84 series belongs to Diodes' precision Zener diode product line, engineered specifically for voltage regulation, reference, and clamping in space-constrained, high-reliability applications-including automotive, industrial, and computing systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum reverse voltage (VR) this Zener diode can withstand before breakdown?

The BZX84C15-7-F has a specified maximum reverse current (IR) of <0.1µA at VR = 10.5V, and begins controlled breakdown at its nominal Zener voltage of 15V. Its absolute maximum rating is defined by the 15.6V upper limit of the VZ range-exceeding this risks irreversible avalanche degradation. Operation must remain within the 13.8–15.6V window at 5mA for guaranteed regulation.

Is this part suitable for use in automotive applications?

Yes-BZX84C15-7-F is explicitly qualified to AEC-Q101 standards for high-reliability automotive use. It undergoes stress testing for temperature cycling, humidity, mechanical shock, and solderability, and is rated for operation from −65°C to +150°C. The "-7-F" suffix denotes standard-compliance packaging, and full qualification documentation is available from Diodes Incorporated upon request.

How does the SOT23 package affect thermal performance?

In the SOT23 package, BZX84C15-7-F achieves a thermal resistance of 357°C/W junction-to-ambient when terminals are held at ambient temperature. When mounted on a standard FR-4 PCB with recommended pad layout, RθJA degrades to 417°C/W. This means at 350mW dissipation, junction temperature rises ~124°C above ambient-requiring derating above 25°C per Figure 1 in the datasheet to avoid exceeding 150°C TJ max.

Can this Zener diode replace a 12V or 18V variant in the same footprint?

No-while all BZX84C variants share the SOT23 package, their Zener voltages are process-defined and not interchangeable without circuit redesign. A 12V part (e.g., BZX84C12) has different VZ, ZZT, and temperature coefficient values; substituting it for BZX84C15-7-F would shift regulation point by 3V and alter loop stability. Always verify VZ, IR, and thermal behavior against the target application's voltage and current requirements.