VLZ4V3B-GS08

Diodes - Zener - Single: VLZ4V3B-GS08 application field and working principle

The VLZ4V3B-GS08 by STMicroelectronics is a Zener diode in single diode configuration. This diode is especially suited for voltage-stabilization, voltage-regulation and voltage clamping applications. In its class, the VLZ4V3B-GS08 stands out with impressive performance metrics and high reliability, thus making it well suited for a variety of applications. This article describes the working principle and application field of this high performance device.

Working Principle

A Zener diode is a type of diode whose characteristics are designed to enable it to operate in the reverse bias region. It is designed to break the normal behaviour of a diode when reverse biased and enable it to operate in a linear, instead of a non-linear, region. In the case of the VLZ4V3B-GS08, this linear region extends from about 4V to 17V.

In normal diode operation, the current flow through the p-n junction increases rapidly as the voltage increases from 0 to a certain point when the diode turns on. With the VLZ4V3B-GS08, the current flow increases slowly from 0 to a certain point before turning on, and then increases rapidly. This is the reverse-biased avalanche effect that the Zener diode is designed for.

Applications of VLZ4V3B-GS08

The VLZ4V3B-GS08 is suited for both low and high voltage applications as it has a voltage range of 4 to 17V. In low voltage applications, the device can be used as a voltage regulator to provide stable output voltage while preventing over-voltages and emissions. In high voltage applications, the device can provide voltage protection, enable precision voltage clamping, and isolate low voltage circuits from high voltage circuits.

In addition, the VLZ4V3B-GS08 has a wide range of other applications, including radio and television sets, mobile phone chargers, power supplies, digital cameras, portable devices, and servers. It is also used in automotive and industrial applications.

Advantages of VLZ4V3B-GS08

The VLZ4V3B-GS08 offers several advantages over other Zener diodes, including low-profile, low forward-voltage drop, and low-leakage architecture. Its low-profile architecture, with a maximum height of 0.4mm, enables it to be used in space-constrained applications. Furthermore, the low forward-voltage drop of 0.25V and low-leakage rate of 1.5mA make it ideal for use in high efficiency applications. In addition, the device comes with integrated ESD protection and EMI shielding, making it ideal for use in both automotive and home electronics applications. This device is also RoHS compliant, meaning that it contains no hazardous materials.

Conclusion

The VLZ4V3B-GS08 is a high performance, reliable Zener diode in single configuration. Its linear-region operation makes it suitable for use in a range of applications, from low voltage to high voltage applications. Its several advantages, such as low-profile architecture, low forward-voltage drop, and low-leakage rate, make it an ideal choice for applications that require high efficiency, space-constrained designs, and durability. Furthermore, its integrated ESD protection, EMI shielding, and RoHS compliance make it an ideal choice for both automotive and home electronics applications.