NXP Semiconductors PLVA2659A,215

Overview

PLVA2659A from Nexperia is a low-voltage avalanche regulator double diode with common anode in SOT23 package, designed for precision voltage stabilization at 5.9 V nominal working voltage (IZ = 250 μA), 2.4 mV/K temperature coefficient, <500 nA reverse current at 80% VZ, and 100 Ω dynamic impedance - used in CMOS RAM backup circuits requiring low-noise, low-current regulation.

For engineers reviewing the PLVA2659A datasheet, PLVA2659A pinout, PLVA2659A application, or PLVA2659A equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-cathode/common-anode topology, tight 5.7–6.1 V VZ tolerance at 250 μA, sub-1 μV/√Hz noise density, 250 mW total power dissipation limit, and SOT23 thermal resistance of 500 K/W.

Technical Context

This device implements two monolithically integrated Zener-type avalanche regulator diodes sharing a single anode terminal, enabling compact dual-rail voltage reference or clamping in space-constrained PCB layouts. Its hard breakdown knee and low 100 Ω dynamic impedance at 250 μA ensure stable regulation under light-load conditions typical in memory backup and sensor biasing.

Designed for operation at junction temperatures up to 150 °C, it delivers predictable line regulation (≤0.1 V from 10 μA to 1 mA) and exhibits low thermal drift (2.4 mV/K), making it suitable for ambient-stable references in industrial and automotive subsystems where passive regulation replaces active LDOs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PLVA2659A is housed in a plastic surface-mounted SOT23 (TO-236AB) package with 3 leads and a 1.4 mm × 1.2 mm footprint. The package features gull-wing leads, 0.95 mm lead pitch, and is rated for reflow soldering per JEDEC J-STD-020.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-voltage dual-Zener regulator applications.

Compared with BZX84-C5V6 and PLVA2656A, PLVA2659A uniquely combines dual-cathode integration, 5.9 V regulation optimized for modern low-voltage logic, and lowest IR in its series - making it optimal for battery-sensitive dual-rail backup and precision biasing where space and leakage are constrained.

Availability

PLVA2659A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for CMOS RAM backup circuits, voltage stabilizers for sensor bias, USB peripheral protection, and smoke detector relay drivers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for PLVA2659A 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 leader in high-performance discrete, logic, and PowerMOS semiconductors, serving automotive, industrial, computing, consumer, and wearable markets with robust, scalable components.

The PLVA2600A series belongs to Nexperia's low-voltage avalanche regulator diode product line, engineered specifically for precision, low-noise, low-leakage voltage reference and clamping in battery-powered and space-constrained electronic systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous forward current rating for PLVA2659A?

The PLVA2659A has a maximum continuous forward current (I_F) of 250 mA per diode, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. This rating assumes device mounting on an FR4 PCB and applies to each cathode-anode path independently. Exceeding this value risks permanent junction damage due to thermal overstress.

Can PLVA2659A be used in place of a single Zener diode?

Yes - either cathode (Pin 1 or Pin 2) can be used with the common anode (Pin 3) as a standalone 5.9 V regulator. The unused cathode must be left floating or tied to a non-conflicting potential; it is not internally shorted and does not affect regulation of the active diode.

What is the significance of the 100 μs pulse width in the P_ZSM specification?

The 30 W non-repetitive peak reverse power dissipation (P_ZSM) is defined for 100 μs pulses at 10% duty cycle, reflecting capability to absorb transient energy such as ESD or inductive kickback. This rating enables use in surge protection without external TVS devices, provided pulse repetition remains within thermal limits.

How does the 2.4 mV/K temperature coefficient impact circuit design?

A 2.4 mV/K coefficient means V_Z increases by ~2.4 mV per degree Celsius rise in junction temperature. Over a −40 °C to +125 °C range, this results in ~396 mV total drift - requiring calibration or compensation in high-accuracy references, but acceptable for general-purpose stabilization where ±5% regulation is sufficient.