1N4962

Overview

The Microchip Technology 1N4962 is a military-qualified, voidless hermetically sealed 5-watt glass Zener diode. It provides a nominal voltage of 15V with a standard tolerance of ±5%. The device operates at a test current of 75mA and features a maximum continuous current of 315mA. Electrical characteristics include a maximum dynamic impedance of 3.5 ohms at the test current and 150 ohms at 1mA. The unit withstands a surge current of 12A for an 8.3ms square wave. It utilizes axial leads with a tin/lead finish and supports an operating temperature range from -65°C to +175°C.

Feature Summary

• Hermetically sealed construction using voidless hard glass with tungsten slugs
• Military qualification compliant with MIL-PRF-19500/356 standards
• Internal metallurgical bonds ensuring robust mechanical integrity
• Triple-layer passivation providing inherent radiation hardness

Applications

• High-reliability aerospace systems requiring failure-intolerant components
• Defense electronics demanding strict environmental sealing
• Precision voltage regulation in extreme temperature environments
• Circuit protection where radiation hardness is required

Procurement Notes

Verify that the specific ordering suffix matches the required tolerance level, as standard versions lack specific suffixes while tighter tolerances use C or D designations. Confirm the lead finish specification, noting that previous inventory utilized solid silver leads without plating, whereas current specifications indicate a tin/lead finish. Ensure compliance with the applicable military procurement requirements associated with the MIL-PRF-19500/356 standard before finalizing acquisition.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a high-power 5-watt Zener regulator is necessary for critical applications. The 1N4962 offers a 15V breakdown point suitable for stable reference circuits. Consider the wide thermal operating range if the environment exceeds standard industrial limits. Verify that the axial lead configuration fits the available board space and mounting constraints compared to surface-mount alternatives.

Part Context

This part belongs to the industry-recognized 1N4954 through 1N4996 series of 5-watt Zener voltage regulators. The series covers a broad voltage spectrum from 3.3V to 390V. These devices are designed for applications where reliability is paramount, utilizing a standardized JEDEC registered package style. The manufacturer provides both through-hole and surface-mount variants within this family.

Replacement Considerations

Surface-mount equivalents are available in a square end-cap MELF configuration with the 'US' suffix, such as 1N4962US.