In this article we will discuss about the various types of diodes, their working principle and their common uses. We will cover many common diode types, such as P-N junction diode, Zener diode, Schottky diode, LED and laser diodes, photo diode, varactor diode, avalanche diode, PIN diode etc. Feel free to leave a comment with other types of diodes you know.
This is the most common type of diode and acts as one way gate to current flow. The current flows from anode (A) to cathode (C) and comes in two types depending on the material used, silicon and germanium. They both need a forward-bias voltage to contact which is in the range of 0.6-1.7V for silicon and 0.2-0.4V for germanium. Common uses are: voltage rectification, transient suspension, voltage multiplication, voltage regulation etc.Zener diode acts like a p-n junction diode if forward-biased and conducts from anode (A) to cathode (C) but will also conduct in the opposite direction if the applied voltage exceeds the zener’s breakout voltage Vz. Common breakout voltages are 1.2V, 3V, 5.1V, 6.3V, 9V, 12V etc. Common uses are: voltage regulation, waveform clipping, voltage shifting, voltage reference etc. Often they are used in series and with opposite directions with p-n junction diodes to balance the temperature coefficient response.his kind of diodes have similar operation with p-n junction diodes but are constructed with metal semiconductor junction instead of a p-n junction. They have a lower forward voltage drop (0.15-0.45V) than p-n junction diodes and way lower junction capacity that results for quicker switching times. Common uses are: low loss rectification, high frequency applications, RF applications, switchmode power supplies, mixers and detectors.Light emitting diodes (LED) produce light when forward biased and they come in many different types depending on wavelength emitted (infrared, visible light and ultraviolet), power output, size and material used. A typical forward voltage is 1.7 to 4V and their wavelength spectrum is about 40nm wide. They are often used as indicators and for lighting purposes. In contrast laser diodes have a much narrower spectrum of about 1nm and fast response times and are used in fiber optic communications, CD/DVDs, barcode readers, medical uses etc.
For more detail: [Article] Basic Diode Types
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.
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