Understanding the Basic Operations and Applications of Zener Diodes A silicon semiconductor device that permits current to flow in either reverse or forward direction is known as zener diode. The zener diode consists of a special, heavily doped p-n junction in order to conduct the current in the reverse direction when a certain specified voltage is reached. For conducting current and continue operating continuously in the reversebias mode without getting damaged, the zener diode has a well-defined reverse-breakdown voltage. Zener diodes are suitable for use in voltage regulation as the voltage drop across the diode remains constant over a wide range of voltages. In this article, we will briefly discuss the functionality and applications of zener diodes in various electrical circuits. What is Zener Breakdown? It is essential to understand that breakdown of zener diode is either due to impact ionization that occurs above 5.5 V or the zener breakdown effect that occurs below 5.5 V. Both mechanisms results in the same behavior and do not require different circuitry. However, it is important to understand that each of mechanism involved in the zener diode breakdown has a different temperature coefficient. The impact effect experiences a positive coefficient while the zener effect has a negative temperature coefficient. Zener diode applications It is used for voltage regulation, as reference elements, surge suppressors, and in switching applications and clipper circuits. Voltage regulator The load voltage equals breakdown voltage VZ of the diode. The series resistor limits the current through the diode. In addition, the drops the excess voltage when the diode is conducting. Zener diode in overvoltage protection The current flows through the diode and create a voltage drop across the resistor if the input voltage increases to a value higher than zener breakdown voltage. It will significantly trigger the SCR and also create a short circuit to the ground. By opening up the fuse, the short circuit disconnects the load from the supply.
Zener diode clipping circuit In order to modify or shape AC waveform clipping circuits, the zener diodes are used in various electrical circuits. It is essential to understand that the clipping circuit effectively limits or clips off parts of one or both of the half cycles of an AC waveform for shaping the waveform or provide protection. Important Things to consider while choosing the zener diode suppliers Based on your specific needs and demands, you can buy them from reputed and well-known wholesale zener diodes distributors. Rich vendors’ base and well-equipped warehousing capacity helped these distributors to take and complete bulk orders within promised time frame. Due to their wide and well-connected distribution network, the reputed distributors have been able to deliver the zener diode within promised time frame. Being a customer focused and quality centric approach, the wholesale distributors of zener diodes has been able to deliver the zener diode within promised time frame at their clients’ end. You should always choose a zener diode suppliers or distributor who follows transparency in all the business dealings and ethical business policies while supplying zener diodes to their customers.