Diodes
Two-terminal devices that conduct in one direction — rectifiers, regulators, LEDs and more.
The ideal diode is a one-way valve. A real silicon diode starts conducting significantly around 0.6–0.7 V forward, and blocks in reverse up to its breakdown voltage.
Diode symbol: the arrow points in the direction of conventional current; the bar is the cathode (marked by a band on the package).
Sub-topics (7)
Diode Characteristics
The Shockley diode equation, forward voltage, reverse leakage and breakdown.
Rectifier Diodes
Diodes like the 1N4007 convert AC into DC in power supplies.
Zener Diode
A diode designed to operate in reverse breakdown, holding a nearly constant voltage — a simple voltage reference and regulator.
Light Emitting Diode
LEDs emit light when forward biased; always limit their current with a resistor.
Schottky Diode
A metal–semiconductor junction with low forward voltage and very fast switching.
Photodiode
A reverse-biased junction that turns light into a proportional current.
Varactor Diode
A reverse-biased diode whose capacitance changes with voltage — used to tune oscillators electronically.
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