Types of Diodes and Their Applications

Introduction

Diodes are one of the core electronic components, besides resistors and capacitors, when it comes to designing circuits. This discrete component is used in power supplies for rectification, in displays as LEDs (light-emitting Diodes), and is also used in various other protection circuits when it comes to power regulations.

This article will help you understand different types of diodes that are used in the world of electronics, along with their applications, to help you learn and select the right component for your next electronics project.

1. P-N DIODE

A P-N diode is the most basic configuration of this electronic component, where the diode features two regions, the N-type region and the P-type region. In the N-type region, the electrons are in the majority, while in the P-type region, the holes are in the majority.

Whenever the diode is applied with the appropriate biasing voltage, with a higher potential on the positive end while a lower potential at the negative end, the electrons from the N-type region pass through the depletion region, also known as the PN junction, passing through the holes in the P-type region, allowing the current to flow through the diode.

To prevent the flow of current, the biasing voltage should be applied in reverse with a higher potential on the negative end of the diode and a lower potential on the positive end of the diode. This operation of the diode helps provide reverse voltage protection in devices.

Applications:

• Rectification of an AC power supply to help generate a DC output by only allowing positive cycles of voltage to pass through.
• Used in voltage protection circuits, especially in chargers, to prevent sudden voltage spikes, helping keep both the device and the charger safe.
• Used in signal modulation for clipping and clamping circuits to remove unwanted signals.

1. ZENER DIODE

A Zener Diode is a special kind of diode that allows reverse flow of current at a special voltage known as the Zener voltage. Unlike the P-N diode, where reverse flow of current is prohibited, Zener diodes allow the flow of current in both directions.

For this diode to conduct current in reverse, it must first reach its Zener voltage limit. This limit allows the diode to enter the reverse breakdown voltage region, where the diode can allow current to flow in the opposite direction as long as the Zener voltage is applied to the diode.

This diode comes with a Zener voltage ranging from 2.4 volts up to

200 volts, catering to various industries and applications, both high voltage and low voltage applications.

Applications:

• Helps prevent voltage spikes by acting as a voltage clamp, removing higher voltage levels by suppressing them.
• Used in voltage regulator circuits to keep the output voltage constant.
• Designed to operate in reverse voltage safely

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article helped you learn more about diodes and their operation mechanism, along with their applications. To learn more about diodes and their comparisons, check out this link on Zener Diodes vs TVS Diodes.

To source new electronic components for your circuit design, check out Flywing Tech for a wide range of components at competitive prices.

Thank you for tuning in!