Analog Devices Inc. REF43GS

Overview

REF43GS from Analog Devices is a precision 2.5 V voltage reference IC in an 8-pin SOIC package, featuring 0.10% initial accuracy, 25 ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and low power operation. It delivers stable output under varying supply voltage, load, and ambient temperature, and is used as a reference for 8-, 10-, and 12-bit data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the REF43GS datasheet, REF43GS pinout, REF43GS application, or REF43GS equivalent, key selection considerations include initial voltage tolerance, thermal drift performance, SOIC packaging compatibility, zener-zap trimming assurance, and curvature correction circuitry for improved linearity over temperature.

Technical Context

The REF43GS employs a zener-based architecture with curvature correction to minimize thermal nonlinearity, distinguishing it from standard bandgap references. Its output voltage is trimmed via zener-zap at both voltage and temperature coefficient points, ensuring tight initial accuracy and predictable drift behavior across –40°C to +85°C.

It operates from a minimum input voltage of 4.5 V (headroom ≥2 V), supports output currents up to ±10 mA, and integrates proprietary ESD protection rated to 4000 V HBM-critical for handling in automated assembly environments without functional degradation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

REF43GS is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package (JEDEC MS-012AA, R-8), with 1.27 mm pitch, 5.00 mm × 4.00 mm body size, and gull-wing leads. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner or dot.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADR431BRZ and LM4040C25IDBZR, REF43GS offers balanced performance: tighter accuracy than shunt references and lower cost than ultra-precision series references, making it optimal for cost-sensitive 12-bit industrial DAQ where 25 ppm/°C drift is acceptable.

Availability

REF43GS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable data loggers, industrial PLC analog inputs, and medical patient monitors requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for REF43GS 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

Analog Devices is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Norwood, MA, with design centers worldwide and a focus on precision signal conditioning.

The REF43 family was designed specifically for medium-accuracy, low-drift voltage referencing in data acquisition systems-balancing cost, performance, and ease of use across industrial, medical, and test equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for the REF43GS?

The REF43GS supports a supply voltage range of 4.5 V to 36 V. The absolute maximum rating is 40 V, but sustained operation above 36 V risks parametric shift or reliability degradation. For reliable long-term performance, keep VIN ≤36 V with adequate derating in high-temperature environments. The REF43GS requires ≥2 V headroom above its 2.5 V output to maintain regulation, so minimum valid input is 4.5 V.

Does the REF43GS require external capacitors for stability?

No, the REF43GS is internally compensated and does not require external output capacitors for stability under normal load conditions. However, a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor placed close to the VOUT pin is recommended to suppress high-frequency noise and improve transient response during fast load steps. Avoid large bulk capacitors (>1 µF) directly at VOUT unless validated, as they may interact with internal compensation.

Can the TEMP pin of the REF43GS be left unconnected?

No, the TEMP pin must be connected to a defined potential-typically to the same analog ground as pins 3 and 5-or buffered via a unity-gain op-amp if used for external monitoring. Leaving TEMP floating can cause unpredictable output drift or increased noise due to internal node instability. The datasheet specifies that TEMP provides a PTAT voltage proportional to absolute temperature and is part of the internal curvature correction network.

Is the REF43GS pin-compatible with other REF43 variants like REF43GP or REF43GZ?

No, REF43GS is not pin-compatible with REF43GP (plastic DIP, N-8) or REF43GZ (ceramic DIP, Q-8), though all share identical pin functions. The physical packages differ: REF43GS uses SOIC-8 (R-8), while GP and GZ use through-hole DIP footprints. PCB layout must match the R-8 outline; substitution requires mechanical redesign. Electrical specs (0.10% accuracy, 25 ppm/°C) are identical across these variants.

What does the "Z" suffix mean in REF43GSZ-REEL7?

The "Z" suffix in REF43GSZ-REEL7 indicates Pb-free (lead-free) construction per JEDEC J-STD-609, with matte tin lead finish. It does not affect electrical performance or pinout. REF43GSZ-REEL7 is identical to REF43GS-REEL7 except for RoHS compliance and plating; both share the same SOIC-8 package, 0.10% accuracy, 25 ppm/°C tempco, and full functionality. Aetrix Electronics stocks both versions with full traceability.