Semiconductor devices called Zener diodes can flow forward and backward current, but they are particularly good at the latter. The most often used electronic component for providing stable voltage references in electronic circuits is the Zener diode, sometimes referred to as a breakdown diode.
When the applied voltage exceeds the breakdown voltage in this area, the 50W Zener diode permits current to flow in the opposite direction. Because of this feature, the Zener Diode can be used as a voltage regulator.
A significant amount of current can flow backward through Zener diodes, one of the essential parts of electronic circuits, when a specific reverse voltage, also known as the Zener voltage, is attained. Let’s focus on the Zener diodes:
Features and Symbol of the Zener Diode
A diagonal line passes across the sign of a Zener diode, which resembles a regular diode. Its special VI properties include a quick increase in current when the applied voltage surpasses the breakdown voltage in the reverse bias situation, exhibiting an identical behavior to a regular diode in the forward bias condition.
The current passing through the Zener diode is called the Zener current, and the breakdown voltage is called the Zener voltage.
Zener Diode Voltage Regulator Variables:
When using a Zener diode as a voltage regulator, the three main factors to consider are the supply voltage (Vs), the load resistance (RL), and the series resistance (RS). By comparing these variables’ lowest and greatest values, you can determine the Zener diode’s operating voltage regulator range. Minimal Zener current and resistance are crucial when building functional circuits.
Zener Diodes’ functionality:
The Zener effect is the reverse bias current flowing across the terminals. The Zener voltage (Vz) or breakdown voltage results when the voltage potential is reached. The distinctive feature of the 50w Zener Diode is its highly doped P-N junction, which permits current to flow backward when it reaches Vz.
Continuous current conductivity in reverse bias is possible without damage for a well-defined Vz. After reaching a maximum level set by a series resistor, the current stabilizes and stays constant throughout a range of applied voltages.
A Zener diode has a turn-on voltage between 0.3V and 0.7V and operates in the typical forward bias range. A tiny amount of current leaks through when a connection is made in reverse bias because the current flows backward.
Current passes through the diode as the reverse voltage rises to the planned Vz. Over a range of applied voltages, the current stabilizes to remain constant after increasing to a maximum determined by the series resistor.
The current needs to sustain this voltage to flow across the diode. In addition to being helpful as voltage regulators due to their consistent voltage drop, a properly configured Zener diode can also be used to regulate the voltage of other devices.
Using a Zener Diode to Regulate Voltage
The 10W Zener diode functions as a voltage regulator by maintaining a steady voltage across its terminals when it is operated in the breakdown zone. This makes it helpful for power supply design, particularly when combined with a capacitor filter to lessen output waveform ripple.
Using Zener Diodes in Power Supply Design
The Thevenin’s equivalent voltage across the Zener diode terminals must be considered when designing a power supply that uses a Zener diode. For the diode to operate in the breakdown area, this value needs to be higher than the Zener voltage. The voltage across the Zener diode and the load current passing through it largely depends on the load resistance.
Partial Words:
A component with several applications, the 50w Zener Diode acts as a voltage regulator in various electronic circuits. Because of its special properties in the breakdown zone, it can offer a steady voltage across its terminals, which makes it appropriate for power supply systems. Knowing the different factors and design concerns, you may use the Zener diode efficiently in voltage control applications.
