Nexperia USA Inc. BZX84W-C5V1X

Overview

BZX84W-C5V1X from Nexperia is a ±5% tolerance Zener voltage regulator diode in SOT323 (SC-70) package, providing 5.1 V nominal regulation at 5 mA test current, with 480 Ω typical differential resistance and −0.8 mV/K temperature coefficient, used for precision voltage reference and overvoltage protection in low-power analog circuits.

For engineers reviewing the BZX84W-C5V1X datasheet, BZX84W-C5V1X pinout, BZX84W-C5V1X application, or BZX84W-C5V1X equivalent, key selection factors include Zener voltage tolerance, thermal coefficient stability, junction-to-ambient thermal resistance, and SOT323 footprint compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

This Zener diode operates in reverse breakdown to maintain stable voltage across its cathode-anode terminals under varying load currents. It exhibits a negative temperature coefficient below 5 V, enabling predictable drift compensation in reference designs.

Its 275 mW total power dissipation rating assumes mounting on FR4 PCB with single-sided copper, while non-repetitive peak reverse power reaches 40 W for 100 µs pulses-critical for transient suppression in signal conditioning paths.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT323 (SC-70) leadless surface-mount plastic package with 3 terminals, 1.3 mm × 1.8 mm footprint, 0.65 mm pitch, and 0.25 mm terminal thickness per JEDEC MS-012AC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MMBZ5222BS, BZX84W-C5V1X offers smaller footprint and lower thermal resistance on FR4 but trades 30 Ω higher differential resistance; versus BZX84-C5V1, it shares identical performance while differing only in manufacturer-specific process controls and lot traceability.

Availability

BZX84W-C5V1X is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply clamping, ADC reference stabilization, signal level translation, and low-power oscillator biasing requiring stable component supply across industrial, consumer, and IoT product lifecycles.

Supply support for BZX84W-C5V1X 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, headquartered in Nijmegen, Netherlands, with manufacturing in Asia and Europe.

The BZX84W series belongs to Nexperia's general-purpose Zener diode product line, engineered for cost-sensitive, space-constrained applications demanding stable voltage regulation across commercial and industrial temperature ranges.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous reverse current this Zener can sustain at 5.1 V?

The BZX84W-C5V1X is rated for 200 mA maximum forward current, but in Zener operation, its continuous reverse current is limited by power dissipation. At 5.1 V, the maximum sustainable DC reverse current is 53.9 mA (275 mW ÷ 5.1 V), assuming 25 °C ambient and standard FR4 mounting. Derating applies above 25 °C per the 455 K/W thermal resistance.

Does the 'n.c.' pin require PCB connection or grounding?

No, pin 2 is internally not connected and must remain unconnected on the PCB. Routing traces or applying solder paste to this terminal violates the SOT323 mechanical specification and may cause solder bridging or thermal stress during reflow. The device functions correctly with only pins 1 (anode) and 3 (cathode) populated.

How does the −0.8 mV/K temperature coefficient affect long-term voltage accuracy?

A −0.8 mV/K coefficient means the Zener voltage decreases by 0.8 mV per °C rise in junction temperature. Over a 100 °C range (−25 °C to +75 °C), this produces a 80 mV (1.6%) shift from nominal 5.1 V. For applications requiring tighter stability, this drift must be compensated in system calibration or mitigated with temperature-aware firmware correction.

Can this diode replace a 5 V linear regulator in low-current applications?

No-it lacks current-limiting or dropout regulation capability. As a two-terminal shunt device, it requires an external series resistor to set operating current and cannot regulate output voltage under variable load. It serves only as a voltage reference or clamp, not as a standalone power supply. Use only where load current is fixed and known, or combined with active regulation.