The Basics of Diodes

The Basics of Diodes

Among the most commonly used electronic components, the diode allows electric current to pass in one direction and blocks it in the other.diodes This simple little device performs a number of useful functions, from regulating the flow of electricity to maintaining a constant voltage to extracting signals from radio waves.diodes You’ll find a diode of some type in almost any circuit, and a well-designed PCB design software package, such as Allegro from Cadence, will allow you to accurately model the current flow characteristics of any of the several types available.

The simple idea behind a diode is that it’s like a one-way street, where cars (electric current) can travel in only one direction.diodes When a diode is forward-biased, it acts as a very efficient current switch.diodes In contrast, when a diode is reverse-biased, it acts as an effective insulator and resists the flow of current.

This behavior is a result of the fact that a diode has properties between those of a conductor and an insulator.diodes The two electrodes of a diode, known as the cathode and plate, have low resistance in one direction and high resistance in the other. If you apply a positive potential to the cathode of a diode, it will widen, or create a depletion zone, which means that free charge carriers are present and current can flow through. On the other hand, if you apply a negative potential to the cathode of

As you might expect, when a diode is reverse-biased it consumes power and wastes energy as it attempts to block current flow.diodes As a result, it should never be subjected to a voltage greater than its peak reverse voltage rating, which is typically written on the package label along with its PIV and maximum current ratings. The most common diode, a standard signal diode, has a relatively moderate forward voltage drop and a high maximum current rating, such as the 1N4001. Other common varieties of diodes include rectifiers, which have a much higher maximum current rating at the cost of a higher forward voltage, and light-emitting diodes, which literally light up when connected correctly.