DZ23C47-HE3-18 Discrete Semiconductor Products

DZ23C47-HE3-18 is a Zener diode array, which is a type of diode optimized to operate in the reverse-biased condition. These devices are designed to have a very high reverse breakdown voltage, typically several hundred volts. It is composed of 18 Zener diodes in a single package, designed to provide a compact and easy to install solution for protection circuits, voltage clamping and other applications where a large number of Zener diodes are required.

Application field

Zener diode arrays are commonly used in automotive and industrial applications. These devices are used to protect electronic circuitry from voltages that exceed the design voltage of a particular circuit, either to protect the whole circuit or a particular component, for example a semiconductor device. This protection is done by placing each diode in parallel with one another and connecting the parallel diodes between the power line and ground. When the voltage rises above the Zener voltage of all the connected diodes, the diodes begin leaking current, reducing the voltage at the circuit input or output. Zener diode arrays are also often used as current limiters in series with the circuit being protected, allowing a limited current to flow to protect components when an overvoltage occurs.

Working Principle

The operation of Zener diode arrays is based on the same principles as other Zener diodes. When the device is reverse-biased, the electric field generated by the applied voltage causes electrons to break down and become mobile. These mobile electrons generate a current, allowing the device to regulate the voltage. By connecting multiple Zener diodes together in parallel and connected across the input and ground, it creates what is known as a voltage clamp. If the input voltage rises, the voltage across the array will increase until it reaches the breakdown voltage of all the connected diodes. This prevents the voltage from reaching the higher level, offering protection for the circuit components.

The DZ23C47-HE3-18 Zener diode array offers a robust, reliable and cost-effective solution for several applications. With 18 Zener diodes integrated into one package, it is possible to have a substantial voltage clamp to protect the circuit components. The Zener diodes in this array have a maximum operating temperature of 125°C and a maximum reverse current up to 7.5 mA. This makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of automotive and industrial applications.