Nexperia USA Inc. PDZ16B/ZLF

Overview

PDZ16B/ZLF from Nexperia is a 16 V, 400 mW Zener diode with ±5% tolerance, 100 µA test current, and 25 Ω dynamic impedance, used for voltage regulation and overvoltage protection in low-power analog sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the PDZ16B/ZLF datasheet, PDZ16B/ZLF pinout, PDZ16B/ZLF application, or PDZ16B/ZLF equivalent, key selection criteria include Zener voltage accuracy, power dissipation at ambient temperature, thermal resistance, and leakage current under reverse bias.

Technical Context

This discrete Zener diode operates in reverse breakdown to maintain a stable reference voltage across its terminals. It is characterized at I_Z = 100 µA and specified for operation up to 150 °C junction temperature with a maximum Zener impedance of 25 Ω at 5 mA.

The device uses planar epitaxial technology for consistent voltage tolerance and low noise performance. Its construction supports reliable clamping in signal conditioning paths where precision DC biasing or transient suppression is required.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PDZ16B/ZLF is housed in a surface-mount SOD-123 plastic package with two terminals: cathode (marked band) and anode. The package measures 2.7 mm × 1.6 mm × 1.1 mm and is rated for reflow soldering per JEDEC J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Availability

PDZ16B/ZLF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor biasing, USB port overvoltage clamp, and programmable logic supply clamp requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for PDZ16B/ZLF 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, with leadership in automotive-qualified components and energy-efficient solutions.

PDZ16B/ZLF belongs to the PDZ series of low-power Zener diodes designed specifically for precision voltage reference and transient suppression in space- and power-constrained applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous Zener current for PDZ16B/ZLF at 70 °C ambient?

At 70 °C ambient, derating reduces the maximum continuous Zener current to approximately 18 mA. This is calculated using the 400 mW rating and 375 K/W thermal resistance, resulting in a junction temperature limit of 150 °C. Operation above this current risks thermal runaway and permanent degradation.

Can PDZ16B/ZLF replace BZX84-C16 in a 16 V regulator design?

Yes, PDZ16B/ZLF is a direct functional replacement for BZX84-C16, sharing identical 16 V ±5% Zener voltage, SOD-123 package, and 400 mW power rating. Both meet JEDEC JESD201 Class 2A for robustness, though PDZ16B/ZLF offers lower typical Zener impedance (25 Ω vs. 40 Ω).

Is PDZ16B/ZLF qualified for automotive applications?

No, PDZ16B/ZLF is not AEC-Q200 qualified. It is rated for industrial temperature range (−65 °C to +150 °C), but lacks the extended qualification testing required for automotive use. For automotive designs, consider Nexperia's PZUxxB series, which are AEC-Q200 certified.

How does the 100 µA test current affect circuit design?

The 100 µA test current defines the reference point for Zener voltage specification, not minimum operating current. Circuits must supply ≥100 µA to achieve nominal V_Z, but stable regulation requires ≥1 mA. Below 100 µA, voltage drops significantly due to knee-region nonlinearity.