0
Zener diodes operate like any other diode in reverse bias, they just have the point where they breakdown more carefully controlled, and usually lower than the typical ~50V for a standard silicon diode. The process by which most diodes (with breakdowns larger than a few volts) operate under reverse biases strong enough to cause breakdown is called "Avalanching".
Avalanching is where the reverse biasing is strong enough that the electric field between the positive and negative terminals grows to a point where the electrons and holes being swept across the junction have enough energy so that when they eventually release that energy it is enough to generate a new electron and hole pair which themselves are swept away by the electric field also.
What else can I help you with?
What is break down voltage?
A rectifier diode normally allows current to pass in one direction (the forward direction), and almost no current in the opposite direction (the "reverse" direction). The diode is designed to work up to a certain voltage; if more than a certain voltage is applied in the reverse direction, it will "break down", and suddenly a large current will flow. This can irreparably damage the rectifier diode, unless it is of a type specifically designed to operate in the breakdown region - i.e., a Zener diode.
How do you connect a diode to a doorbell button. I was told my doorbell won't work unless I have a diode. Why don't they come included in the dorbell anyway?
mine did, but the contractor threw it away not knowing what it was. I will be going to RadioShack to see if I can purchase one.
Why ordinary diodes dont work properly At high frequencies?
Because of stray capacitance. At very high frequencies, the inter-electrode capacitance has a low enough impedance that the diode no longer cuts off when reverse-biased, there is still significant conduction via capacitive coupling. High-frequency diodes are constructed so as to minimize this capacitance.
Can a diode work in ac?
A diode is a "one-way valve" that allows electrical current to flow in only one direction. A diode placed in series between an AC voltage source and a resistive load will allow current to flow through the load in one direction and block the current when the polarity of the AC voltage changes.
What is the definition of operating point of diode?
The current you set it to work at. Using for example resistors you can set the voltages and currents at a certain DC level. At that point the transistor will work. It is mostly (but not always) used to put the transistor in its linear region.
What is a special quality of zener diode?
it can work in reverse bias unlike other diodes
Will a zener diode work the same as a germanium diode?
No. An ordinary diode, be it silicon or germanium, conducts in one direction only, whereas a zener diode conducts in both directions, but at different voltages. An ordinary diode is used to rectify, using its forward bias characteristics, while a zener diode is used to regulate, using its reverse bias characteristics.
What is V-I characteristics of zener diode?
Work in reverse bias.(breakdown at a particular voltage to keep the volt. constant so used as voltage regulator) same as diode when forward biased.
How does a zener diode work in forward bias?
Like a normal diode............. unless it includes a "back biased" diode to prevent conduction in this mode as is common in zener diodes rated at about 10 volts or more, then it acts as an open circuit.
Why zener diode acts as a reference element in the voltage regulator circuit?
It has a very sharp reverse breakdown voltage curve and is not damaged by the reverse current, as some normal diodes might be.
Why ammeter is connected in different way in forward and reverse bias zenner diode?
The ammeter is connected in different way in forward and reverse bias zenner diode. So that all of the board will work right going forward and reverse.
Diode will work on zero bias or not?
diode does not work on zero bias
How do you xxplain the zener shunt regulator?
zener diode is a special type of pn junction diode that work in breakdown region . There are two types of brekdowns in zener i.e avlanche breakdown and zener breakdown depending on the doping concentration. A zener diode in an on state can be considered as a voltage source ,equal to its zener voltage n hence act as an voltage regulator
How does a Zener diode work to regulate voltage in electronic circuits?
A Zener diode regulates voltage in electronic circuits by allowing current to flow in reverse when the voltage exceeds a certain threshold, maintaining a constant output voltage. This helps stabilize the voltage and protect sensitive components from damage.
Does the zener diode work after breakdown?
A: Believe it or not that is the only time that it is useful
What does the term PIV for a diode refer to?
Peak Inverse Voltage, the maximum reverse bias (inverse) voltage that can be applied to the diode without damaging or destroying it. The work "peak" is used to remind you that when using the diode to rectify AC (or arbitrary waveforms) you must use the peak voltage, not the RMS voltage.
Why a zener diode is better than a simple diode?
A typical diode functions only in one direction (forward-bias). When subjected to reverse-bias, the junction will eventually break down under high enough voltage. A zener diode works the same way, but breaks down at a very specific reverse-bias voltage. This is called its zener voltage. Because of this property, a zener diode can be used to regulate the voltage in a circuit. When inserted the opposite orientation as you typically expect a diode, it begins to conduct when the voltage across it reaches the zener voltage. Then the voltage stays at that level. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zener_diode for more information.
