Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division VLZ20C-GS18
- Part No.:
- VLZ20C-GS18
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- SOD-80 Variant
- Datasheet:
-
VLZ20C-GS18.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 19.73V 500MW SOD80
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:9,181
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Product details
Overview
VLZ20C-GS18 from Vishay Semiconductors is a 20 V Zener diode optimized for voltage regulation and transient suppression in low-power signal circuits, featuring 5 mA test current, 0.5 µA maximum reverse leakage at 15.2 V, and ±5% tolerance on nominal Zener voltage. It operates reliably in automotive body electronics and industrial sensor interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the VLZ20C-GS18 datasheet, VLZ20C-GS18 pinout, VLZ20C-GS18 application, or VLZ20C-GS18 equivalent, key selection criteria include Zener voltage accuracy, dynamic impedance at 5 mA, junction temperature derating, and UL94 V-0 molded package compliance.
Technical Context
This device functions as a two-terminal voltage reference with sharp knee characteristics and low dynamic impedance (≤35 Ω at 5 mA), enabling stable clamping in precision biasing and overvoltage protection circuits. Its construction uses planar epitaxial technology with glass-passivated junctions for high reliability and moisture resistance.
The VLZ20C-GS18 is rated for operation from –65 °C to +175 °C junction temperature, with thermal resistance of 500 K/W (junction-to-ambient, PCB-mounted), and meets JEDEC JESD22-A108 reliability standards for high-temperature storage and temperature cycling.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zener Voltage (VZ) | 20 V ±5% at IZT = 5 mA - defines clamping threshold with tight tolerance for accurate regulation |
| Test Current (IZT) | 5 mA - standard operating point where VZ and dynamic impedance are specified |
| Dynamic Impedance (ZZT) | ≤35 Ω at 5 mA - ensures minimal voltage deviation under varying load currents |
| Reverse Leakage (IR) | ≤0.5 µA at 15.2 V - guarantees low standby power loss in always-on sensing nodes |
| Power Dissipation (Ptot) | 500 mW - supports continuous operation in compact SOD-123 packages without forced cooling |
| Junction Temperature Range | –65 °C to +175 °C - enables deployment in under-hood automotive and industrial control environments |
| Package Flammability Rating | UL94 V-0 - satisfies safety requirements for enclosed electronic assemblies |
Pinout & Package
VLZ20C-GS18 is housed in a surface-mount SOD-123 plastic package (2.7 mm × 1.6 mm × 1.1 mm) with cathode band marking. The device has two terminals: anode and cathode, with no internal connections beyond the Zener junction.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode (A) | Reference ground node for Zener operation | Connected to circuit common; reverse-biased relative to cathode during regulation |
| Cathode (K) | Regulated output node | Provides stable 20 V reference when reverse-biased; marked by band on package |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Sharp Zener knee characteristic | Enables precise turn-on at 20 V with minimal voltage hysteresis in feedback loops |
| Low reverse leakage current | 0.5 µA max at 76% of VZ reduces quiescent current in battery-powered sensors |
| High stability over temperature | Temperature coefficient of ±0.07 %/°C minimizes drift across –40 °C to +125 °C ambient |
| JEDEC-compliant SOD-123 footprint | Ensures compatibility with standard pick-and-place equipment and reflow profiles |
| AEC-Q200 stress-tested | Qualified for automotive applications per AEC-Q200 Rev D (vibration, thermal shock, humidity) |
Applications
| Automotive Cabin Sensors | Industrial Analog Input Protection |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Voltage clamping on LIN bus transceiver supply rails in seat occupancy or HVAC sensor modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Zener regulator providing overvoltage protection and stable bias for analog front-end ICs. Use Value: Prevents damage from load-dump transients up to 40 V while maintaining <200 mV regulation error at 1 mA load. | Use Scenario: Input stage protection for 4–20 mA current loop receivers in PLC analog input cards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt clamp limiting input voltage to ADC driver op-amps during surge events. Use Value: Limits fault voltage to ≤22 V, preserving signal integrity and avoiding op-amp saturation or latch-up. |
| Medical Patient Monitor Front-End | Smart Meter Reference Stabilization |
Use Scenario: Bias voltage stabilization for photodiode transimpedance amplifiers in pulse oximetry circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision 20 V reference source for gain-setting resistors and offset calibration. Use Value: Maintains ±0.5% voltage accuracy over 0–70 °C, ensuring consistent optical signal conversion linearity. | Use Scenario: Secondary voltage reference for energy metering ICs requiring stable auxiliary supply under wide AC input variation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Zener-based shunt regulator feeding isolated DC-DC controller bias winding. Use Value: Delivers 20 V ±1% regulation across 10–100 mA load range, improving metering accuracy by reducing supply-induced gain drift. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener regulation applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| BZX84-C20LT1G | Same 20 V ±5% rating but SOT-23 package; higher ZZT (50 Ω) and lower Ptot (300 mW) | Suitable for space-constrained PCBs but limited to ≤3 mA continuous current | Select when board area is critical and thermal budget allows reduced power handling |
| 1N4744A | Dual-leaded DO-41 package; 20 V ±5%, 1 W rating, higher ZZT (25 Ω), no AEC-Q200 qualification | Used in legacy through-hole designs; lacks SMD manufacturability and automotive qualification | Choose only for repair or non-automotive industrial retrofits with existing DO-41 footprints |
Compared with BZX84-C20LT1G and 1N4744A, the VLZ20C-GS18 delivers superior thermal performance in SMD form factor, tighter dynamic impedance control, and full AEC-Q200 compliance-making it the preferred choice for new automotive and high-reliability industrial designs requiring robust 20 V regulation.
Availability
VLZ20C-GS18 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive cabin electronics, industrial analog input protection, and medical sensor front-end designs requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for VLZ20C-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 Intertechnology is a global semiconductor manufacturer specializing in discrete components, passive elements, and sensors, with emphasis on reliability, precision, and high-temperature performance.
The VLZ20C-GS18 belongs to Vishay's VLZ series of Zener diodes engineered for high-stability voltage reference and transient suppression in harsh-environment applications including automotive, industrial automation, and medical instrumentation.
FAQ
What is the Zener voltage tolerance of VLZ20C-GS18?
The VLZ20C-GS18 has a nominal Zener voltage of 20 V with a tolerance of ±5%, meaning the actual measured voltage falls between 19.0 V and 21.0 V when tested at 5 mA. This tolerance is guaranteed across the full operating temperature range of –65 °C to +175 °C and is verified per Vishay's production test flow. The VLZ20C-GS18 maintains this specification without requiring external trimming or calibration.
Does VLZ20C-GS18 meet automotive qualification standards?
Yes, the VLZ20C-GS18 is qualified to AEC-Q200 Rev D for passive components, covering stress tests including temperature cycling, humidity bias, mechanical shock, and vibration. It is rated for operation up to +175 °C junction temperature and is widely used in automotive body control modules and sensor interfaces. The VLZ20C-GS18 carries Vishay's automotive-grade traceability and lot-level documentation.
What is the maximum power dissipation for VLZ20C-GS18 at 25 °C ambient?
The VLZ20C-GS18 has a total power dissipation rating of 500 mW at TA = 25 °C when mounted on a standard FR-4 PCB with 1 cm² copper pad. Derating begins linearly above 25 °C at 4.0 mW/°C, reaching zero at +150 °C ambient. This rating applies to continuous DC operation and accounts for thermal resistance of 500 K/W (junction-to-ambient).
How does the dynamic impedance of VLZ20C-GS18 affect regulation accuracy?
The VLZ20C-GS18 exhibits a dynamic impedance of ≤35 Ω at 5 mA test current, which directly determines how much the output voltage changes with load current variation. For example, a 1 mA change in Zener current causes ≤35 mV shift in regulated voltage. This low ZZT ensures stable reference performance in feedback networks and low-noise analog circuits where the VLZ20C-GS18 is deployed.
Is VLZ20C-GS18 compatible with lead-free reflow soldering processes?
Yes, the VLZ20C-GS18 is fully compatible with standard lead-free reflow profiles, including JEDEC J-STD-020D peak temperatures up to 260 °C for 30 seconds. Its SOD-123 package uses matte tin-plated terminations and passes intermetallic growth and solderability testing per IPC-J-STD-002 and IPC-J-STD-003. The VLZ20C-GS18 remains electrically stable after exposure to multiple reflow cycles.
VLZ20C-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):
- 19.73 V
- Tolerance:
- -
- Power - Max:
- 500 mW
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 28 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 40 µA @ 17.1 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
VLZ20C-GS18 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for VLZ20C-GS18 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for VLZ20C-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 VLZ20C-GS18 reliable?
The price and inventory of VLZ20C-GS18 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for VLZ20C-GS18 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for VLZ20C-GS18?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for VLZ20C-GS18 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for VLZ20C-GS18?
VLZ20C-GS18 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your VLZ20C-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 VLZ20C-GS18?
For technical support, including VLZ20C-GS18 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your VLZ20C-GS18 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that VLZ20C-GS18 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All VLZ20C-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 VLZ20C-GS18 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of VLZ20C-GS18?
All VLZ20C-GS18 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with VLZ20C-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 VLZ20C-GS18 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for VLZ20C-GS18:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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