Nexperia USA Inc. PLVA659AVL
- Part No.:
- PLVA659AVL
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
PLVA659AVL.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 5.9V 250MW
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:10,000
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Product details
Overview
PLVA659AVL from Nexperia is a low-voltage avalanche regulator diode in SOT23 (TO-236AB) package, designed for precision voltage stabilization at 5.90 V nominal working voltage with ±0.20 V tolerance, 100 Ω dynamic resistance at 250 µA, and 0.9 nA reverse current at 50 % VZ. It serves as a low-noise, low-power reference in CMOS RAM backup and voltage limiter circuits.
For engineers reviewing the PLVA659AVL datasheet, PLVA659AVL pinout, PLVA659AVL application, or PLVA659AVL equivalent, key selection criteria include its hard breakdown knee, 2.40 mV/K temperature coefficient, 250 mW total power dissipation, and SOT23-compatible thermal resistance of 500 K/W in free air.
Technical Context
This device operates as a two-terminal Zener-type voltage reference using controlled avalanche breakdown in silicon, optimized for stable regulation below 6.8 V. Its low noise density (≤1.0 µV/√Hz at 1 kHz) and minimal line regulation (≤0.1 V over 10 µA–1 mA current range) support high-accuracy analog and memory retention functions.
The PLVA659AVL exhibits a hard, non-linear breakdown knee and low dynamic impedance (100 Ω typical), enabling fast transient response in low-current (<1 mA) stabilization roles. Its 0.9 nA reverse leakage at 50 % VZ and 1.0 µA at 90 % VZ confirm tight process control for low-power biasing applications.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Nominal VZ | 5.90 V - precise regulation point at IZ = 250 µA, ±0.20 V tolerance ensures stable reference under low-current conditions |
| Dynamic resistance RZ | 100 Ω - low impedance at 1 kHz AC superimposed on DC bias enables minimal output voltage variation during load transients |
| Reverse current IR | 0.9 nA at 50 % VZ - ultra-low leakage preserves battery life in CMOS RAM backup circuits |
| Temperature coefficient SZ | 2.40 mV/K - predictable VZ drift allows accurate compensation in temperature-sensitive references |
| Total power dissipation Ptot | 250 mW - supports continuous operation on standard FR4 PCBs without forced cooling |
| Noise voltage density Vn | ≤1.0 µV/√Hz at 1 kHz - 90 % lower than conventional series, critical for low-noise analog signal chains |
| Line regulation ΔVZ | ≤0.1 V from IZ = 10 µA to 1 mA - maintains regulation accuracy across wide current range in variable-load systems |
Pinout & Package
PLVA659AVL uses the SOT23 (TO-236AB) surface-mount plastic package: 3-pin, single-row, gull-wing leads, 1.9 mm × 1.3 mm footprint, 1.1 mm height, and 0.95 mm lead pitch. Thermal resistance is 500 K/W junction-to-ambient (free air) and 330 K/W junction-to-solder-point.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anode (A) | Forward-biased terminal; connects to lower-potential node in reverse-bias regulation configuration |
| 2 | Not Connected (n.c.) | Internally isolated; must remain unconnected on PCB to avoid parasitic coupling or mechanical stress |
| 3 | Cathode (K) | High-impedance reference node; connected to regulated output and current-limiting resistor in shunt configuration |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hard breakdown knee | Sharp, non-linear transition into conduction improves regulation stability and reduces sensitivity to current variations |
| Very low dynamic impedance | 100 Ω at 250 µA enables <0.1 V output shift under 100 µA load step-critical for low-power memory retention |
| Low noise performance | ≤1.0 µV/√Hz at 1 kHz reduces interference in precision analog front-ends and sensor bias networks |
| Tight VZ tolerance | ±0.20 V at 5.90 V nominal ensures consistent system-level voltage margin without post-assembly trimming |
| Ultra-low reverse leakage | 0.9 nA at 50 % VZ minimizes standby current drain in battery-backed circuits over extended temperature ranges |
Applications
| CMOS RAM Backup | Voltage Stabilizer |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Maintaining data integrity in static RAM during main power loss using coin-cell or supercapacitor backup. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt voltage reference providing stable 5.90 V bias to RAM VCC pin during brown-out conditions. Use Value: 0.9 nA reverse leakage extends backup runtime by >30 % versus conventional Zeners; hard knee prevents premature discharge. |
Use Scenario: Regulating supply rail for low-current analog circuitry (e.g., op-amp bias, ADC reference) where LDO dropout is prohibitive. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Two-terminal shunt regulator replacing active regulators in space-constrained, low-quiescent-current designs. Use Value: 100 Ω dynamic resistance delivers <0.1 V regulation error across 10 µA–1 mA load range-eliminating need for feedback loop compensation. |
| Voltage Limiter | Smoke Detector Relay Driver |
|
Use Scenario: Clamping transient overvoltage on microcontroller I/O lines exposed to ESD or inductive kickback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response avalanche clamp absorbing energy spikes while holding node voltage ≤6.10 V. Use Value: 30 W non-repetitive peak power rating (100 µs pulse) protects downstream logic without sacrificing signal integrity during normal operation. |
Use Scenario: Providing stable bias to electromechanical relay coil driver ICs in battery-powered smoke alarms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Reference element ensuring consistent relay activation threshold despite battery voltage decay from 9 V to 6 V. Use Value: 2.40 mV/K temperature coefficient enables predictable trip-point drift across –20 °C to +70 °C operating range-meeting UL 217 requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-voltage shunt regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BZX84-C5V6 | 5.6 V nominal VZ, 250 Ω RZ, 100 nA IR at 50 % VZ, higher noise (≥3 µV/√Hz) | Higher leakage and impedance reduce battery life and regulation accuracy in RAM backup | Select only if 5.6 V regulation is acceptable and cost is primary constraint; not suitable for <1 µA standby designs |
| PLVA662AVL | 6.20 V nominal VZ, identical package/pinout, 0.9 nA IR, 2.65 mV/K SZ | Higher VZ shifts regulation window; same thermal and noise performance | Use when system requires 6.2 V reference; direct drop-in replacement with no layout change but different voltage setpoint |
Compared with BZX84-C5V6, PLVA659AVL offers 100× lower leakage and 2.5× lower dynamic resistance for superior low-power stability; versus PLVA662AVL, it provides a 300 mV lower regulation point with slightly better temperature coefficient for tighter voltage margins.
Availability
PLVA659AVL is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for CMOS RAM backup circuits, low-noise analog reference designs, and battery-powered smoke detector systems requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for PLVA659AVL 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 delivering high-performance, reliable discrete, logic, and MOSFET devices with focus on efficiency, miniaturization, and robustness for consumer, industrial, and communications markets.
The PLVA6xxA series targets precision low-voltage regulation in space-constrained, low-power systems-designed specifically for battery-backed memory, sensor biasing, and safety-critical voltage limiting where leakage, noise, and thermal stability are decisive.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous reverse power dissipation for PLVA659AVL?
The PLVA659AVL has a total power dissipation limit of 250 mW at Tamb = 25 °C on standard FR4 PCB. Its non-repetitive peak reverse power dissipation is rated at 30 W for 100 µs pulses at Tj = 150 °C, but sustained operation must remain within the 250 mW DC limit to avoid thermal runaway.
Can PLVA659AVL be used in place of a standard 5.6 V Zener diode?
No-it is not a direct substitute due to its 5.90 V nominal VZ, tighter tolerance (±0.20 V), and significantly lower leakage (0.9 nA vs. typical 100 nA). Replacing a 5.6 V Zener requires verifying system voltage margins, load current, and temperature drift compatibility before integration.
How does the 2.40 mV/K temperature coefficient affect circuit design?
This coefficient means VZ increases by 2.40 mV per Kelvin rise in junction temperature. Over a 50 °C range (25–75 °C), VZ shifts by ~120 mV-requiring derating in high-temperature environments or inclusion of compensation resistors in precision reference networks.
Is PLVA659AVL automotive-qualified?
No-this part is non-automotive qualified per Revision History v.4 (January 2023). Nexperia explicitly states it is not tested or warranted for automotive use. For automotive applications, consult Nexperia's -Q qualified alternatives such as the PZTA659AQ series.
PLVA659AVL Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- PLVA6xxA
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Voltage - Zener (Nom) (Vz):
- 5.9 V
- Tolerance:
- ±4%
- Power - Max:
- 250 mW
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 100 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 1 µA @ 5.3 V
- Voltage - Forward (Vf) (Max) @ If:
- 900 mV @ 10 mA
- Operating Temperature:
- 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
PLVA659AVL FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PLVA659AVL through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PLVA659AVL on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for PLVA659AVL reliable?
The price and inventory of PLVA659AVL are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PLVA659AVL is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PLVA659AVL?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PLVA659AVL transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PLVA659AVL?
PLVA659AVL orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PLVA659AVL order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for PLVA659AVL?
For technical support, including PLVA659AVL datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PLVA659AVL requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PLVA659AVL is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PLVA659AVL products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that PLVA659AVL meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PLVA659AVL?
All PLVA659AVL units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PLVA659AVL, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The PLVA659AVL part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PLVA659AVL:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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