Contents
What is Zener diode and its VI characteristics?
Zener Diode is a reverse-biased heavily-doped PN junction diode which operates in the breakdown region. The reverse breakdown of a PN- junction may occur either due to Zener effect or avalanche effect. The breakdown voltage of a Zener diode can be set by controlling the doping level.
What is Zener diode explain the characteristics of Zener diode using suitable diagram?
Differences between Diode and Zener Diode
| Diode | Zener Diode |
|---|---|
| (1) The basic diode with p-n as its junction its conduction will be limited in forwarding bias. | (1) Here the conduction is evident in both forward and reverses biases. |
| (2) The level of doping is low in this type of diode. | (2) The level of doping here is high. |
What is reverse characteristics of Zener diode?
In the reverse bias condition, the Zener diode is an open circuit and only a small reverse saturation current flows as shown with a change of scale. At the reverse breakdown voltage, there is an abrupt rapid increase in the current- the knee is very sharp, followed by an almost vertical increase in current.
How is a Zener diode different from a regular diode?
whereas zener diode allows the conduction in both directions.
How can I identify Zener diodes?
Zener diodes may have a dark plastic casing with a dark stripe , which is the same coloring as that of other diodes. Many other zener diodes are copper colored, and are enclosed in a glass casing with a white or black or blue stripe. Still others may have metal casings.
Why are Zener diodes heavily doped?
A Zener diode is heavily doped to reduce the breakdown voltage. This causes a very thin depletion region. As a result, an intense electric field exists within the depletion region.
What is the function of a Zener diode in a DC power supply?
The zener diode is connected with its cathode terminal connected to the positive rail of the DC supply so it is reverse biased and will be operating in its breakdown condition. Resistor RS is selected so to limit the maximum current flowing in the circuit.