STMicroelectronics LM336Z

Overview

LM336Z from STMicroelectronics is a precision 2.5V shunt voltage reference IC in TO-92 package, functioning as an adjustable Zener-like regulator with 0.2Ω dynamic impedance, ±5mV initial accuracy at 1mA, and 3.5mV temperature stability over 0°C to +70°C. It enables accurate biasing in analog sensor interfaces, ADC/DAC reference circuits, and programmable power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the LM336Z datasheet, LM336Z pinout, LM336Z application, or LM336Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its adjustable reference voltage (via ADJ pin), low dynamic impedance for load regulation, wide 400µA–10mA operating current range, and guaranteed temperature coefficient minimization at 2.49V setting.

Technical Context

The LM336Z operates as a two-terminal (V+ and V−) shunt reference with a third ADJ terminal enabling external trimming of breakdown voltage and temperature coefficient. Its internal bandgap-derived structure achieves stable 2.5V output without requiring external components for basic operation.

It supports active adjustment via a potentiometer between ADJ and V− to shift reference voltage while preserving temperature coefficient integrity; series connection of two units further reduces net temperature drift when biased at 2.49V each.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM336Z is supplied in TO-92 plastic package (3-lead, through-hole), with bottom-view pinout: Pin 1 = V+, Pin 2 = V−, Pin 3 = ADJ.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TL431ACZ and REF200AIDR, the LM336Z uniquely combines on-chip adjustability, 2.5V nominal output, and sub-4mV temperature stability in a 3-pin TO-92 package-making it optimal for cost-constrained, field-calibratable industrial references.

Availability

LM336Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, high-accuracy data acquisition systems, and programmable power supply feedback loops requiring stable component supply and long-term calibration integrity.

Supply support for LM336Z 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, designing and manufacturing analog, MCU, power, and sensing solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The LM336Z belongs to ST's precision voltage reference product line, engineered specifically for applications demanding stable, adjustable, low-drift references in harsh ambient environments without external compensation circuitry.

FAQ

What is the correct pinout orientation for LM336Z in TO-92 package?

The LM336Z TO-92 uses bottom-view orientation: with flat side facing up and leads pointing downward, left-to-right pins are V+ (1), V− (2), ADJ (3). This matches ST's May 2007 Rev 3 datasheet correction confirming bottom-view labeling-critical for proper PCB layout and functional testing.

Can LM336Z be used without connecting the ADJ pin?

Yes-LM336Z functions as a standard 2.5V shunt reference with only V+ and V− connected. The ADJ pin is internally connected to the reference node and may be left unconnected or tied to V− for nominal operation. External adjustment is optional and does not affect basic functionality.

How does LM336Z achieve lower temperature coefficient than standard Zeners?

LM336Z integrates a bandgap-derived reference core with curvature compensation, achieving 3.5mV max drift over 0°C to +70°C. Unlike conventional Zeners, its temperature coefficient is minimized at 2.49V and further reduced by series connection of two units-enabling <1mV/°C effective drift in optimized configurations.

What is the minimum operating current for stable regulation?

The LM336Z maintains regulation down to 400µA per datasheet Table 2, with ≤6mV deviation from nominal voltage. Below this, breakdown behavior becomes unstable and tempco degrades significantly-designs must ensure cathode current remains ≥400µA under all operating conditions including sleep modes.