# Using a Zener diode as voltage reference

I want to use a zener diode as a voltage reference to the the PIC18F2550, as the analog V+ reference. I am planning to use this zener diode, but I am not sure how to calculate its values. I am planning to have a 4.7V voltage reference, by just using a simple circuit as Vcc->Resistor->Zener->GND (using a reversed zener and gettitng its zener voltage).

looking at the zener's datasheet I cant see the zener curve on it, just the positive, foward voltage graph...why? And I can only see a table with just the values for a 5mA current. I was planning to use a 10K resistor, but by some simulations I am not getting 4.7V, which is probably because I am not giving it 5mA, but how may I calculate this? How may I know how much voltage will it output with a 10K resistor?

• A zener is a very very soft and approximate reference source. You can do far far better for not a lot more cost. A TL431 or TLV413 are 2.5 and 1.125 V references available typically in 0.5%, 1% and 2% tolerance parts. They act like a programmable zener. The TLV version is usually to be presferred as it starts regulating at lower current and the lower voltage allows more flexibility. In most versions you can set the reference voltage from Vref to Vmax with two resistors. This is a component that is very wort knowing about. Feb 14 '13 at 8:55
• TLV431 Example prices here || TL431 are cheaper prices here ||Datasheet 67c in ones for a 0.4% vcersion. About 25c in 1's for 2% parts. Feb 14 '13 at 8:58

For example: if the supply voltage is 9 Volts, then required resistance R = V / I = 860 Ohms. The nearest standard (E12 series, i.e. 10% tolerance) resistor value is 820 Ohms, which will work fine for the purpose.