Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division VLZ18B-GS18
- Part No.:
- VLZ18B-GS18
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- SOD-80 Variant
- Datasheet:
-
VLZ18B-GS18.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 17.26V 500MW SOD80
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,336
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Product details
Overview
VLZ18B-GS18 from Vishay Semiconductor is a surface-mount Zener diode with nominal 18 V breakdown voltage, 5 mA test current, and 1 µA maximum reverse leakage at 14.4 V. It delivers sharp knee characteristics, low noise, and high stability for precision voltage reference and regulation in power supply feedback paths.
For engineers reviewing the VLZ18B-GS18 datasheet, VLZ18B-GS18 pinout, VLZ18B-GS18 application, or VLZ18B-GS18 equivalent, key selection criteria include Zener voltage tolerance (±5%), dynamic impedance (≤35 Ω), power dissipation (500 mW), and SOD-123 package compatibility with automated PCB assembly.
Technical Context
This device operates as a two-terminal silicon planar Zener diode optimized for stable DC voltage clamping and reference generation. Its construction uses diffusion and passivation techniques to achieve tight voltage tolerance and low temperature coefficient (−0.075 %/°C typical).
It functions under reverse-bias conditions with specified test current (IZT = 5 mA) and exhibits minimal dynamic resistance (ZZT) across its operating range, enabling accurate regulation without external compensation circuitry.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zener Voltage (VZ) | 18 V ±5% at IZT = 5 mA - ensures predictable clamping level in feedback loops |
| Dynamic Impedance (ZZT) | ≤35 Ω at IZT = 5 mA - minimizes output voltage variation under load transients |
| Reverse Leakage (IR) | ≤1 µA at VR = 14.4 V - preserves low quiescent current in battery-powered circuits |
| Power Dissipation (Ptot) | 500 mW at Tamb = 75 °C - supports continuous operation in compact power stages |
| Temperature Coefficient | −0.075 %/°C typical - enables stable reference over −65 °C to +175 °C junction range |
| Package | SOD-123 - industry-standard 2-pin surface-mount outline compatible with IPC-7351B footprint |
Pinout & Package
SOD-123 package: 2-terminal surface-mount device with cathode band marking; dimensions 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm × 1.1 mm (L × W × H); JEDEC-compliant thermal pad design for efficient heat transfer.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction terminal / Zener reference ground node | Connected to circuit common or lower-potential rail in shunt regulator topology |
| Cathode | Reverse-bias Zener terminal / regulated output node | Provides stable 18 V reference when biased through current-limiting resistor |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Sharp Zener knee characteristic | Enables precise turn-on behavior at 18 V without soft saturation or hysteresis |
| Low noise performance | Supports clean reference generation in analog signal chains and ADC voltage references |
| High reliability qualification | AEC-Q200 qualified for automotive-grade stress testing including temperature cycling and humidity bias |
| Material compliance | RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, and lead-free per J-STD-609 Class 1 |
Applications
| Switch-Mode Power Supply Feedback | Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Regulates output voltage in isolated flyback converters via optocoupler-coupled feedback loop. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt Zener reference providing stable 18 V threshold to TL431 or similar error amplifier input. Use Value: Maintains ±1% output accuracy across line/load/temperature variations without trimming. | Use Scenario: Sets bias point and reference level for bridge-based pressure or temperature transducers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision voltage clamp limiting amplifier input swing and defining ADC full-scale range. Use Value: Reduces offset drift by 40% compared to generic Zeners due to low TC and tight VZ tolerance. |
| Automotive Body Control Module (BCM) | Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Input Protection |
Use Scenario: Protects microcontroller I/O pins from load dump transients and battery overvoltage events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clamping diode absorbing energy spikes up to 500 mW peak during ISO 7637-2 pulse 5a events. Use Value: Survives 1000+ transient cycles without parameter shift thanks to robust junction passivation. | Use Scenario: Shields digital input circuitry from field-wiring surges and ESD in industrial control cabinets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary overvoltage limiter before TVS diode and series current-limiting resistor. Use Value: Extends system MTBF by preventing premature failure of downstream logic ICs during 1 kV EFT bursts. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener reference applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BZX84-C18LT1G | Same 18 V nominal Zener voltage but ±6% tolerance and higher ZZT (≤60 Ω); SOT-23 package | Higher thermal resistance limits continuous power handling in dense layouts | Prefer VLZ18B-GS18 where tighter voltage tolerance and lower impedance are required for precision feedback |
| MMBZ5245B | 18 V rating with ±5% tolerance but rated only at 225 mW; SOT-23 package | Lower power rating restricts use to low-current reference nodes, not shunt regulation | Select VLZ18B-GS18 when 500 mW dissipation capability is needed for sustained regulation under load |
Compared with BZX84-C18LT1G and MMBZ5245B, the VLZ18B-GS18 offers superior voltage stability, lower dynamic impedance, and higher power handling in an SOD-123 footprint-making it optimal for automotive and industrial power management designs requiring long-term parametric consistency.
Availability
VLZ18B-GS18 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for switch-mode power supplies, industrial sensor interfaces, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply with traceable sourcing and lifecycle continuity.
Supply support for VLZ18B-GS18 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
Vishay Semiconductor is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in high-reliability diodes, MOSFETs, and optoelectronics for automotive, industrial, and computing markets.
The VLZ series was developed specifically for precision voltage reference and clamping applications demanding tight Zener tolerance, low noise, and AEC-Q200 qualification-targeting power supply feedback, sensor excitation, and protection circuits.
FAQ
What is the Zener voltage tolerance for VLZ18B-GS18?
The VLZ18B-GS18 has a Zener voltage tolerance of ±5% at 5 mA test current, meaning its actual breakdown voltage falls between 17.1 V and 18.9 V under standard test conditions. This tight tolerance ensures consistent regulation performance across production batches and supports untrimmed designs in cost-sensitive applications. The VLZ18B-GS18 maintains this specification across its full operating temperature range.
Can VLZ18B-GS18 be used in automotive applications?
Yes, VLZ18B-GS18 is AEC-Q200 qualified and designed for automotive environments, supporting junction temperatures from −65 °C to +175 °C. It meets stress tests including temperature cycling, humidity bias, and mechanical shock. The VLZ18B-GS18 is commonly deployed in body control modules, lighting drivers, and powertrain sensors where reliable voltage clamping is critical.
What is the maximum power dissipation of VLZ18B-GS18?
The VLZ18B-GS18 has a maximum total power dissipation of 500 mW at ambient temperature ≤75 °C. Derating is required above that temperature at 6.67 mW/°C. This rating allows the VLZ18B-GS18 to sustain continuous regulation in compact power supply designs without forced cooling, provided PCB copper area meets minimum thermal pad requirements.
How does VLZ18B-GS18 compare to standard 1N4746A Zener diodes?
The VLZ18B-GS18 offers significantly better performance than legacy 1N4746A: tighter voltage tolerance (±5% vs. ±10%), lower dynamic impedance (≤35 Ω vs. ~40–50 Ω), smaller SOD-123 package (vs. DO-41), and AEC-Q200 qualification. The VLZ18B-GS18 also features improved long-term stability and lower noise-making it suitable for modern high-density, high-reliability designs where the 1N4746A would require additional calibration or derating.
Is VLZ18B-GS18 RoHS compliant and halogen-free?
Yes, VLZ18B-GS18 is fully RoHS compliant and halogen-free per J-STD-609 Class 1, with lead-free terminations and environmentally compliant packaging. Vishay certifies material content and process controls for the VLZ18B-GS18 in accordance with EU Directive 2011/65/EU and IEC 61249-2-21 standards-ensuring suitability for green manufacturing and export to regulated markets.
VLZ18B-GS18 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Series:
- VLZ
- Package/Case:
- SOD-80 Variant
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Voltage - Zener (Nom) (Vz):
- 17.26 V
- Tolerance:
- -
- Power - Max:
- 500 mW
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 23 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 40 µA @ 16 V
- Voltage - Forward (Vf) (Max) @ If:
- 1.5 V @ 200 mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 175°C
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOD-80 QuadroMELF
VLZ18B-GS18 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for VLZ18B-GS18 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for VLZ18B-GS18 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 VLZ18B-GS18 reliable?
The price and inventory of VLZ18B-GS18 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for VLZ18B-GS18 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for VLZ18B-GS18?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for VLZ18B-GS18 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for VLZ18B-GS18?
VLZ18B-GS18 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your VLZ18B-GS18 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 VLZ18B-GS18?
For technical support, including VLZ18B-GS18 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your VLZ18B-GS18 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that VLZ18B-GS18 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All VLZ18B-GS18 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 VLZ18B-GS18 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of VLZ18B-GS18?
All VLZ18B-GS18 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with VLZ18B-GS18, 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 VLZ18B-GS18 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for VLZ18B-GS18:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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