Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated ICL8069CCZQ

Overview

ICL8069CCZQ from Maxim Integrated is a 1.2V temperature-compensated bandgap voltage reference in TO-92 package, rated for 0°C to +70°C operation, with guaranteed 50ppm/°C max temperature coefficient, 1.20V–1.25V output voltage at 500µA reverse current, and 5µV RMS noise (10Hz–10kHz). It serves as a stable low-voltage reference in precision analog signal chains.

For engineers reviewing the ICL8069CCZQ datasheet, ICL8069CCZQ pinout, ICL8069CCZQ application, or ICL8069CCZQ equivalent, key selection considerations include its TO-92 mechanical form factor, 50µA minimum bias current requirement, reverse-biased operation, and suitability for low-power, space-constrained reference designs where 1.2V stability is critical.

Technical Context

The ICL8069CCZQ operates as a two-terminal, reverse-biased bandgap reference requiring external current sourcing. Its core architecture leverages curvature-corrected bandgap principles to achieve low TC without trimming, delivering stable 1.2V output across temperature with minimal dynamic impedance (1Ω typical).

It exhibits monotonic reverse-current vs. voltage behavior, supports reverse current from 50µA to 5mA, and maintains output stability with ≤15mV change over full operating range - confirmed under 500µA test condition and validated across -55°C to +125°C for military-grade variants.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ICL8069CCZQ uses a 3-lead TO-92 plastic package with leads designated Anode (Lead 1), Cathode (Lead 2), and NC (Lead 3). The device operates in reverse-bias mode: Cathode is connected to regulated positive supply, Anode to ground or current sink.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM385BZ-1.2 and REF191CP, the ICL8069CCZQ provides tighter initial accuracy (±25mV vs. ±50mV) and lower noise in a legacy-compatible TO-92 package, but lacks buffering and has higher tempco than REF191CP - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, low-noise, through-hole reference designs where moderate temperature stability suffices.

Availability

ICL8069CCZQ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instrumentation, precision ADC/DAC reference design, and threshold detector circuits requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for ICL8069CCZQ 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

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a semiconductor company specializing in analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The ICL8069CCZQ belongs to Maxim's legacy precision voltage reference product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power, two-terminal reference applications in cost-sensitive and space-constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the correct biasing configuration for ICL8069CCZQ?

The ICL8069CCZQ must be operated in reverse-bias mode: Cathode (Lead 2) connects to the positive supply or current source, and Anode (Lead 1) connects to ground or the current sink. Reverse current between 50µA and 5mA establishes the 1.2V reference. Forward biasing renders ICL8069CCZQ nonfunctional as a reference.

Does ICL8069CCZQ require an external capacitor for stability?

Yes - if circuit stray capacitance exceeds 200pF, a 4.7µF shunt capacitor across the ICL8069CCZQ terminals is required to prevent oscillation. This is specified in the datasheet Note 2 and applies regardless of load conditions or PCB layout.

What is the maximum reverse voltage rating for ICL8069CCZQ?

The absolute maximum reverse voltage for ICL8069CCZQ is 20V, per Absolute Maximum Ratings. In normal operation, reverse voltage must not exceed the output voltage (≤1.25V); the 20V limit applies only to transient conditions such as hot-plug events into powered fixtures.

Is ICL8069CCZQ pin-compatible with other TO-92 voltage references like LM385?

No - while both use TO-92 packages, ICL8069CCZQ pinout (Anode–Cathode–NC) differs from LM385 series (Cathode–Anode–NC). Swapping them without board modification will result in incorrect biasing and failure of ICL8069CCZQ to regulate.

Why is ICL8069CCZQ marked "Not Recommended for New Designs"?

ICL8069CCZQ was manufactured using a discontinued wafer process no longer supported by Maxim. While functional units remain available, Maxim advises new designs use modern alternatives like REF191 or MAX6126 to ensure long-term supply and updated specifications - though ICL8069CCZQ remains viable for legacy repair and continuity programs.