TZM5246F-GS08 vs TZM5243F-GS18

Part Number	TZM5246F-GS08	TZM5243F-GS18
Category	Diodes - Zener - Single	Diodes - Zener - Single
Manufacturer	Vishay Semiconductor - Diodes Division	Vishay Semiconductor - Diodes Division
Description	DIODE ZENER 16V 500MW SOD80	DIODE ZENER 13V 500MW SOD80
Package	Tape & Reel (TR)	Tape & Reel (TR)
Series	Automotive, AEC-Q101	Automotive, AEC-Q101
Operating Temperature	175°C	175°C
Mounting Type	Surface Mount	Surface Mount
Package / Case	DO-213AC, MINI-MELF, SOD-80	DO-213AC, MINI-MELF, SOD-80
Supplier Device Package	SOD-80 MiniMELF	SOD-80 MiniMELF
Tolerance	-	-
Power - Max	500 mW	500 mW
Voltage - Forward (Vf) (Max) @ If	1.1 V @ 200 mA	1.1 V @ 200 mA
Current - Reverse Leakage @ Vr	100 nA @ 12 V	500 nA @ 9.9 V
Voltage - Zener (Nom) (Vz)	16 V	13 V
Impedance (Max) (Zzt)	600 Ohms	600 Ohms

1. What is the difference between a diode and a Zener diode?

While a normal diode is mainly used for unidirectional current flow, a Zener diode is designed to provide a stable voltage reference point when reverse biased. A normal diode conducts when forward biased and does not conduct or has only a small leakage current when reverse biased; a Zener diode can start conducting after reaching a specific reverse voltage (called the Zener voltage).
2. How to tell if a diode is a Zener diode?

You can tell by looking at its symbol (which is slightly different from ordinary diodes), the description in the data sheet, or by testing its reverse characteristic curve. Using a multimeter, you can also measure its forward and reverse resistance values and the voltage drop under specific conditions.
3. Can Zener diodes be used as rectifiers?

This is generally not recommended because they are not designed to efficiently convert AC to DC. Rectification is usually done by specialized rectifier diodes.
4. What are the special uses of Zener diodes?

Special uses include precision voltage references, overvoltage protection circuits, etc.