Diodes Incorporated ZC832ATC

Overview

ZC832ATC from Zetex Semiconductors is a silicon hyperabrupt varactor diode optimized for voltage-controlled frequency tuning in precision oscillators and RF filters. It delivers 22.0 pF nominal capacitance at 2 V, 5.0–6.5 capacitance ratio (C₂/C₂₀), ≥200 Q at 50 MHz, and ultra-low reverse leakage (200 pA typ.), enabling low-phase-noise VCXO/TCXO designs in wireless infrastructure and mobile radio front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the ZC832ATC datasheet, ZC832ATC pinout, ZC832ATC application, or ZC832ATC equivalent, key selection criteria include its hyperabrupt CV slope (300–400 ppm/°C tempco), SOT23 package compatibility, 25 V reverse breakdown rating, and tight ±5% capacitance tolerance across production lots - critical for stable tuning in temperature-varying RF environments.

Technical Context

The ZC832ATC employs a silicon hyperabrupt junction structure engineered to produce steep, linearized C–V response over 2–20 V, supporting high-resolution frequency pulling in oscillator control loops. Its low IR (≤20 nA at 20 V) minimizes bias current-induced phase noise degradation in sensitive PLL reference paths.

Designed for RF signal path tuning, it operates within –55°C to +150°C and maintains stable Q ≥200 at 50 MHz under 3 V bias - a key enabler for narrowband filter alignment and VCO gain linearity in 800–2500 MHz transceivers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Supplied in SOT23 package (JEDEC TO-236AB), 3-terminal surface-mount configuration with anode, cathode, and case (cathode-marked). Thermal resistance θ_JA = 370°C/W; max power dissipation = 330 mW at 25°C ambient.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar varactor diode applications.

Compared with SMV2023-011LF and BBY52-02W, ZC832ATC offers superior Q and voltage rating for high-stability oscillator designs, while maintaining tighter capacitance tolerance - making it optimal for new TCXO/VCXO implementations demanding low phase noise and long-term calibration integrity.

Availability

ZC832ATC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for VCXO frequency control, RF bandpass filter tuning, and mobile radio VCO applications requiring stable component supply, tight parametric consistency, and RoHS-compliant SMT packaging.

Supply support for ZC832ATC 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

Zetex Semiconductors plc was a UK-based ISO 9001/TS16949-certified designer and manufacturer of high-performance analog and RF semiconductors, acquired by Diodes Incorporated in 2008.

The 830 series varactors were developed specifically for precision frequency control in telecom oscillators and wireless infrastructure, emphasizing hyperabrupt CV linearity, low leakage, and high Q in miniature SMT packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended reverse voltage for continuous operation?

The absolute maximum reverse voltage is 25 V, but for reliable long-term operation in temperature-cycled environments, Zetex specifies 20 V as the maximum continuous reverse bias. Exceeding 20 V increases risk of parametric shift due to junction stress, especially above 85°C ambient.

Does ZC832ATC require derating at elevated temperatures?

Yes - power dissipation must be derated linearly above 25°C ambient. At 100°C, max allowable power drops to 165 mW (50% of 330 mW rating), and reverse leakage increases exponentially beyond 125°C, affecting phase noise performance in oscillator applications.

Can ZC832ATC be used in dual-common-cathode configurations?

No - ZC832ATC is a single-diode device in SOT23. Dual variants (e.g., ZDC833) exist in SOT323 but are distinct part numbers; ZC832ATC has no internal dual junction and cannot be wired as common-cathode without external components.

Is the SOT23 marking "J4A" sufficient for full traceability?

Yes - "J4A" is the official Zetex device marking for ZC832ATC, indicating 832-series, "A" grade (±5% C tolerance), and SOT23 package. Full traceability requires reel code (TA/TC), date code, and Zetex lot number - all present on original packaging per Zetex Issue 11 documentation.