Diodes Incorporated ZRT025GC1TC

Overview

ZRT025GC1TC from Zetex Semiconductors is a precision 2.5 V bandgap voltage reference IC with 1% initial tolerance, ±15 ppm/°C temperature coefficient, and trimmable output via external resistor. It operates from 0.15 mA to 75 mA, delivers 2.475–2.525 V at 500 µA, and is rated for -40°C to +85°C (Grade C). Used in ADC/DAC biasing, sensor signal conditioning, and power supply feedback loops.

For engineers reviewing the ZRT025GC1TC datasheet, ZRT025GC1TC pinout, ZRT025GC1TC application, or ZRT025GC1TC equivalent, key selection criteria include initial voltage accuracy, TCVR stability over temperature, trim range capability, slope resistance, and SOT223 thermal performance in low-power analog systems.

Technical Context

The ZRT025GC1TC implements a monolithic bandgap reference core with integrated trimming circuitry enabling ±5% output adjustment using a single external resistor. Its low 0.85–2.0 Ω slope resistance ensures stable regulation across 0.15–75 mA load current.

It achieves 6.8 mV total output variation over -40°C to +85°C and requires no external capacitor for stability in most applications. The device maintains specified performance without derating down to -40°C and supports operation up to 125°C with appropriate thermal design.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT223 package (4-pin, pin 4 electrically isolated or internally connected to pin 2 per top-view marking); thermally enhanced plastic surface-mount outline with exposed tab for heatsinking.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV431ACDBVR and REF3025AIDBZR, the ZRT025GC1TC offers superior temperature stability (15 vs. 50 ppm/°C), eliminates external capacitor dependency, and supports wider load current range-making it optimal for ruggedized analog signal chains where thermal drift dominates error budget.

Availability

ZRT025GC1TC is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor transmitters, portable medical instrumentation, and PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term continuity.

Supply support for ZRT025GC1TC 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 (now part of Diodes Incorporated) specialized in high-performance analog and discrete semiconductors for precision, power, and interface applications.

The ZRT025 belongs to Zetex's precision voltage reference product line, engineered for metrology-grade stability in harsh-temperature industrial and automotive subsystems where long-term drift and thermal hysteresis must be minimized.

FAQ

What is the recommended external trim resistor value for ±2.5% output adjustment?

A 100 kΩ potentiometer connected between Pin 1 (anode) and Pin 3 (trim), with wiper to Pin 2 (cathode), achieves ±5% full-range adjustment. For ±2.5%, set the pot to mid-position or use fixed resistors totaling ~100 kΩ in series with Pin 3. Do not short Pin 3 to ground or leave unconnected if trimming is inactive-leave open-circuit per datasheet.

Can ZRT025GC1TC operate without an external output capacitor?

Yes-unlike many series references, the ZRT025GC1TC is internally compensated and stable without an external capacitor under typical loads (≤10 mA). A 100 nF ceramic capacitor may be added for improved high-frequency PSRR in noisy environments, but it is not required for basic regulation stability.

How does the SOT223 thermal pad (Pin 4) affect PCB layout and thermal performance?

Pin 4 is internally connected to Pin 2 (cathode) and serves as the primary thermal path. It must be soldered to a ≥100 mm² copper pour with ≥4 thermal vias to internal ground planes. This reduces junction-to-ambient thermal resistance to ≤60°C/W, enabling full 2 W dissipation at 25°C ambient without exceeding 125°C junction temperature.

Is ZRT025GC1TC compatible with lead-free reflow profiles?

Yes-the SOT223 package is qualified for standard JEDEC J-STD-020D lead-free reflow, with peak temperature up to 260°C for 30 seconds. The device exhibits no parametric shift or reliability degradation when processed per IPC-A-610 Class 2 guidelines, and its plastic body meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements.