NXP BZV85-C24 Zener Diode: Key Specifications and Application Circuits

The NXP BZV85-C24 is a widely utilized Zener diode, specifically designed for voltage regulation and overvoltage protection in a broad range of electronic circuits. Housed in a robust DO-41 package, this component is engineered to deliver stable performance in various environmental conditions.

Key Specifications

The defining characteristic of any Zener diode is its nominal Zener voltage, and the BZV85-C24 is specified at 24 V. This parameter is measured at the designated test current (IZT), which for this diode is 5 mA. It is crucial to operate the diode near this current to ensure the voltage remains stable.

The component's ability to handle power is another critical factor. The device boasts a maximum power dissipation of 1.3 W at an ambient temperature of 75°C. This rating dictates the maximum current it can sustain without damage, calculated by IZM = PZM / VZ. For the BZV85-C24, this equates to approximately 54 mA.

Other vital specifications include:

Tolerance: The Zener voltage has a strict ±5% tolerance, ensuring consistent regulation.

Reverse Leakage Current: A very low leakage current (IR) is maintained before the breakdown region.

Temperature Coefficient: The device exhibits a predictable temperature coefficient, which is essential for designs operating across a wide temperature range.

Application Circuits

The primary function of the BZV85-C24 is to maintain a constant voltage across its terminals, making it ideal for several key circuit configurations.

1. Basic Voltage Regulator: The most straightforward application is a simple shunt regulator. It is placed in parallel with the load it is protecting. The series resistor (RS) is calculated to limit the current through the Zener to a value between IZK (knee current) and IZM, ensuring the output voltage is clamped at 24 V even if the input voltage or load current varies.

2. Overvoltage Protection: In this role, the BZV85-C24 acts as a safeguard for sensitive integrated circuits (ICs). It is connected between a voltage rail and ground. Under normal operating conditions, the input voltage is below 24V, and the Zener presents a high impedance. If a voltage spike occurs that exceeds the breakdown voltage, the diode conducts heavily, shunting the excess current to ground and clamping the voltage to a safe level, thereby protecting downstream components.

3. Voltage Reference: Due to its stable voltage characteristics, the diode is excellent for providing a fixed reference point in circuits like power supplies, analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), and comparator circuits, where a precise 24 V reference is required.

ICGOODFIND Summary

The NXP BZV85-C24 is a reliable and robust 24V Zener diode, offering stable voltage regulation and effective overvoltage protection. Its key strengths lie in its 1.3W power rating and precise voltage clamping at 24V, making it a versatile solution for power management and circuit protection designs across consumer and industrial electronics.

Keywords:

Zener Diode, Voltage Regulation, Overvoltage Protection, 24V, Power Dissipation