The LM136-2.5 is a general purpose shunt regulator diode designed to operate over a wide current range while maintaining good stability with time and temperature. The third terminal allows either the temperature coefficient to be minimized or the reference voltage to be adjusted without changing the temperature coefficient. Because it operates as a shunt regulator it can be used equally well as a positive or negative reference. The LM136-2.5 is available with initial tolerances as low as 1% in either a TO-46 metal can for hermetic requirements or a low cost TO-92 plastic package. Linear's advanced design, test and process techniques have optimized the LM136-2.5 to achieve superior performance and reliability over previous designs. For more demanding precision reference applications requiring very low initial tolerance and temperature coefficients, consult the LT1009 data sheet. A typical 2.5V reference with trim is shown below.