Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division ZPY68-TR
- Part No.:
- ZPY68-TR
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- Single Zener Diodes
- Package:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Datasheet:
-
ZPY68-TR.pdf
- Description:
- DIODE ZENER 68V 1.3W DO204AL
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:6,311
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Product details
Overview
ZPY68-TR from Vishay Semiconductors is a silicon planar power Zener diode in DO-41 (DO-204AL) package, designed for voltage regulation and overvoltage protection in high-power stabilizing and clipping circuits. It delivers a nominal Zener voltage of 68 V at 10 mA test current, with dynamic resistance of 14 Ω, maximum power dissipation of 1300 mW, and junction temperature rating up to 175 °C - suitable for industrial power supply reference and surge clamp applications.
For engineers reviewing the ZPY68-TR datasheet, ZPY68-TR pinout, ZPY68-TR application, or ZPY68-TR equivalent, this page provides verified electrical characteristics, thermal performance data, DO-41 package dimensions, real-world use scenarios, and validated alternative parts for voltage reference design, power rail clamping, and precision analog stabilization circuits.
Technical Context
The ZPY68-TR operates as a single-element, unidirectional Zener diode with sharp reverse breakdown at 68 V (±4 V tolerance), specified under pulse test conditions (tp = 10 ms) and validated at 25 °C ambient. Its 14 Ω dynamic resistance at 10 mA ensures stable regulation under moderate load transients.
Thermal design relies on its 110 K/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance and MSL Level 1 soldering compatibility (peak 260 °C), requiring lead trimming at ≥4 mm from case to maintain rated 1300 mW power dissipation. The device uses UL 94 V-0 molding compound and supports operation from –55 °C to +175 °C storage.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Zener Voltage (VZ) | 64–72 V nominal 68 V; defines precise clamping threshold for 24/48 V DC bus protection |
| Test Current (IZT) | 10 mA; standard bias point for guaranteed VZ specification and dynamic resistance measurement |
| Dynamic Resistance (ZZ) | 14 Ω max at 10 mA; determines regulation error under ±5 mA load variation |
| Power Dissipation (Ptot) | 1300 mW at Tamb = 25 °C with leads held at ambient 4 mm from case; sets continuous clamp energy limit |
| Junction Temperature (Tj) | 175 °C max; enables reliable operation in enclosed industrial enclosures without active cooling |
| Reverse Leakage (IR) | ≤0.5 μA at 51 V; ensures minimal standby current in high-impedance reference nodes |
| Temp. Coefficient (TCVZ) | +8 × 10−4/°C; indicates positive drift - critical for temperature-stable reference designs above 6 V |
Pinout & Package
DO-41 (DO-204AL) axial-leaded package: cathode identified by band; overall length 26 mm min., body diameter 2.6 mm max., lead diameter 0.86 mm max.; weight ≈310 mg; UL 94 V-0 flammability rating.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Forward conduction terminal / low-side connection in shunt regulator | Connected to circuit ground or lowest potential node; carries full load current during Zener conduction |
| Cathode | Zener breakdown terminal / high-side connection | Banded end; connects to regulated voltage rail; sustains reverse bias up to 72 V with <14 Ω impedance |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Silicon planar construction | Enables tight VZ tolerance (±4 V) and repeatable breakdown vs. process variation |
| 1300 mW power rating | Supports transient overvoltage clamping in 24 V/48 V industrial power rails without external heatsinking |
| E12-standard Zener voltage grading | Ensures interoperability with legacy designs using 68 V references across multiple vendors |
| MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity | Allows direct placement without baking; compatible with standard reflow and wave soldering profiles |
| –55 °C to +175 °C operating range | Validates use in automotive engine control modules and outdoor telecom power supplies |
Applications
| Industrial Power Supply Reference | DC Bus Overvoltage Clamp |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Precision 68 V reference node in isolated flyback auxiliary supply for PLC I/O modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt voltage reference providing stable bias for optocoupler feedback loop. Use Value: 14 Ω dynamic resistance minimizes output ripple under 10–15 mA load variation; +8 × 10−4/°C TCVZ enables predictable drift compensation. |
Use Scenario: Clamping transient spikes on 48 V DC distribution bus in factory automation drives. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Passive overvoltage protector absorbing >100 ms surges exceeding 72 V. Use Value: 1300 mW rating allows sustained 68 V clamping at 19 mA without thermal runaway; DO-41 axial form enables through-hole mounting near bus terminals. |
| Automotive Engine Control Unit | Telecom Line Card Protection |
Use Scenario: Backup voltage reference for microcontroller reset circuit during cold-crank battery dip. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standby Zener maintaining 68 V threshold for brown-out detection logic. Use Value: –55 °C to +175 °C rating ensures functionality across engine bay thermal cycles; ≤0.5 μA leakage preserves battery life. |
Use Scenario: Secondary overvoltage protection on -48 V telecom line card power input. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fail-safe clamp activated only during lightning-induced surges beyond primary TVS limits. Use Value: Sharp 68 V breakdown and 14 Ω ZZ provide tighter clamping than generic 70 V Zeners; DO-41 package fits legacy board layouts. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Zener diode applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1N4746A-T | 68 V nominal, 1000 mW Ptot, 15 Ω ZZ, DO-41, ±5% tolerance | Lower power rating reduces surge energy handling; identical pinout and marking polarity | Select when lower cost and legacy qualification outweigh 300 mW derating margin |
| BZX85C68 | 68 V nominal, 1300 mW Ptot, 20 Ω ZZ, DO-41, ±5% tolerance, higher leakage (≤10 μA) | Higher dynamic resistance increases regulation error; wider VZ spread affects precision reference stability | Prefer for non-critical clamping where tighter VZ tolerance is not required |
Compared with ZPY68-TR, the 1N4746A-T offers lower cost but sacrifices 300 mW clamping headroom, while the BZX85C68 matches power rating but introduces 43% higher dynamic resistance - making ZPY68-TR optimal for precision 68 V reference and high-energy transient suppression where regulation accuracy and thermal margin are critical.
Availability
ZPY68-TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supply reference, DC bus overvoltage clamp, and automotive engine control unit applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for ZPY68-TR 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 Semiconductors is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in high-reliability diodes, MOSFETs, and optoelectronics for industrial, automotive, and computing markets.
The ZPY series targets high-power Zener regulation in harsh environments, with emphasis on thermal robustness, tight voltage grading, and long-lifecycle availability for mission-critical power management systems.
FAQ
What is the Zener voltage tolerance for ZPY68-TR?
The ZPY68-TR has a Zener voltage range of 64 V to 72 V at 10 mA test current, corresponding to a ±4 V (±5.9%) tolerance around the nominal 68 V rating. This tolerance is defined per the E12 standard and verified under pulse test conditions (tp = 10 ms) at 25 °C ambient. The ZPY68-TR datasheet specifies no tighter binning - all units shipped as ZPY68-TR meet this full range.
Can ZPY68-TR be used in surface-mount designs?
No - the ZPY68-TR is exclusively offered in the axial DO-41 (DO-204AL) through-hole package and lacks an SMD variant. Its 26 mm length and 2.6 mm body diameter require PCB holes and wave or hand soldering. For surface-mount equivalents, engineers should evaluate Vishay's SMAZ68 or BZT03-C68 families, which differ in package, thermal resistance, and surge capability - the ZPY68-TR itself is not SMD-compatible.
What is the maximum admissible Zener current for ZPY68-TR?
The maximum admissible Zener current for ZPY68-TR is 65 mA under pulse conditions (tp = 10 ms), as specified in the "Admissible Zener Current" column of the Vishay ZPY3V9–ZPY75 datasheet. At continuous DC operation, current must be limited to maintain junction temperature ≤175 °C - typically ≤19 mA at 25 °C ambient with leads trimmed to 4 mm, based on its 1300 mW Ptot and 110 K/W RthJA. Exceeding 65 mA pulses risks irreversible degradation.
Does ZPY68-TR have a specified forward voltage?
Yes - the ZPY68-TR exhibits typical forward voltage (VF) of approximately 1.0 V at 100 mA forward current, consistent with silicon planar diode behavior. Figure 2 in the Vishay datasheet shows VF vs. IF curves across temperatures; at 25 °C, VF is ≤1.1 V for IF = 200 mA. This forward characteristic is relevant for reverse-polarity protection circuits where the ZPY68-TR may conduct forward during fault conditions.
Is ZPY68-TR RoHS-compliant and halogen-free?
Yes - the ZPY68-TR complies with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and is halogen-free per Vishay's material declaration (Doc. #99912). The DO-41 package uses UL 94 V-0 molding compound with no brominated flame retardants, and lead finish is matte tin. Full compliance documentation, including substance declarations and test reports, is available via Vishay's website under document number 99912 - confirming ZPY68-TR meets environmental requirements for industrial and automotive deployments.
ZPY68-TR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- DO-204AL, DO-41, Axial
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Voltage - Zener (Nom) (Vz):
- 68 V
- Tolerance:
- ±5%
- Power - Max:
- 1.3 W
- Impedance (Max) (Zzt):
- 65 Ohms
- Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr:
- 500 nA @ 51 V
- Voltage - Forward (Vf) (Max) @ If:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 175°C
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-204AL (DO-41)
ZPY68-TR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ZPY68-TR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ZPY68-TR 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 ZPY68-TR reliable?
The price and inventory of ZPY68-TR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ZPY68-TR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ZPY68-TR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ZPY68-TR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ZPY68-TR?
ZPY68-TR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ZPY68-TR 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 ZPY68-TR?
For technical support, including ZPY68-TR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ZPY68-TR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ZPY68-TR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ZPY68-TR 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 ZPY68-TR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ZPY68-TR?
All ZPY68-TR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ZPY68-TR, 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 ZPY68-TR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ZPY68-TR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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