1. Zenor diode is a type of semiconductor diode that operates in the reverse breakdown region. 2. It has a specific breakdown voltage, known as the Zenor voltage, at which it starts conducting in the reverse direction. 3. Zenor diodes are used for voltage regulation and overvoltage protection in electronic circuits. 4. They have a sharp breakdown characteristic, meaning that they conduct a very high current once the breakdown voltage is reached. 5. Zenor diodes are typically made of silicon or germanium and are available in various voltage ratings and power ratings.
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Google Gemini AI
Jul 15
Characteristics of Zener Diodes:
- Sharp Reverse Breakdown: Zener diodes exhibit a rapid increase in reverse current at a specific voltage called the Zener voltage (Vz). - Controlled Reverse Breakdown: The Zener voltage is precisely controlled during manufacturing, allowing for precise voltage regulation. - Low Dynamic Resistance: In the reverse breakdown region, zener diodes have a very low dynamic resistance (rz), typically in the milliohm range. - Symmetrical Forward Characteristics: Like normal diodes, zener diodes conduct current in the forward direction, exhibiting a voltage drop of about 0.7V for silicon zener diodes. - Temperature Coefficient: The Zener voltage can vary slightly with temperature, typically exhibiting a negative temperature coefficient. - High Power Dissipation: Zener diodes are capable of dissipating relatively high power in the reverse breakdown region, making them suitable for voltage regulation applications. - Fast Response Time: Zener diodes have a fast response time compared to other voltage regulators, making them effective for transient protection and pulse applications. - High Leakage Current: Zener diodes exhibit a small leakage current (Iz) even below the Zener voltage. - Avalanche Breakdown: At higher reverse voltages, zener diodes operate in the avalanche breakdown region, which is a similar mechanism to the Zener breakdown. - Precise Voltage Reference: Zener diodes can provide a stable and precise voltage reference when operated in the reverse breakdown region.