Can a Zener Diode with a Breakdown Voltage of 1V be Fabricated?

AI Thread Summary
Fabricating a Zener diode with a breakdown voltage of 1V is challenging, as traditional silicon diodes typically achieve a minimum of about 2.5V. Alternatives like germanium may allow for lower breakdown voltages with high doping, but achieving 1V remains difficult. Some users suggest using a BJT with a forward-biased diode or exploring bandgap voltage references as potential solutions. A specific 1V Zener diode is available from MicroSemi, indicating that while it is possible, the methods may differ from standard silicon fabrication. The discussion highlights the need for clarity on the application and whether a Zener is essential for the intended use.
Hossein Roshan
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Hello
I must complete my research before Saturday...
my problem is: how can we fabricate a zener diode with lower than 5.6v zener voltage?
a curve in my reference book determine how much doping need to manufacture desirable zener voltage. but the minimum voltage we can achieve is about 2.5v in silicon.
how can we fabricate a zener diode with 1v breakdown??
http://s6.picofile.com/file/8217451034/Untitled.jpg
 
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Hossein Roshan said:
Hello
I must complete my research before Saturday...
my problem is: how can we fabricate a zener diode with lower than 5.6v zener voltage?
a curve in my reference book determine how much doping need to manufacture desirable zener voltage. but the minimum voltage we can achieve is about 2.5v in silicon.
how can we fabricate a zener diode with 1v breakdown??
http://s6.picofile.com/file/8217451034/Untitled.jpg

Welcome to the PF.

Just use an NPN transistor with a Vbe multiplier...
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF.

Just use an NPN transistor with a Vbe multiplier...

My question was about manufacture a semiconductor! Not about a circuit!
 
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Hossein Roshan said:
how can we fabricate a zener diode with 1v breakdown??
Given that information you cannot. So you must make a component that has the same characteristic as a 1V zenner.
That device is a BJT with a forward biassed diode connected between the base and collector.
Alternatively look at a band gap voltage references. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bandgap_voltage_reference
 
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Runei said:
Perhaps using a different material than Silicon? Maybe germanium?

Here is a 1V Zener diode from MicroSemi:
http://www.microsemi.com/existing-parts/parts/135987

So it is possible.
Thaks for your answer
I can't say "perhaps" to Perofessor!
With Germanium in high doping impurity can achive 2v zener breakdown.
Please help me to find the material and impurity to fabricate a 1v zener diode...
 
I wonder what this means (from http://www.microsemi.com/product-directory/zener-diodes/3385-low-voltage-ultra-sharp-knee ):

"This multi-layer pn junction Zener design for ultra-sharp knee characteristics is used for low-voltage regulation and very low leakage currents. The new design offers significantly improved voltage regulation and lower dynamic impedance and capacitance compared to conventional Zeners".

? http://www.google.com/patents/US5677562
? http://www.researchgate.net/publication/3397509_New_technique_for_fabrication_of_low_voltage_Si_Zener_diodes

Hopefully the OP will get back with the answer
 
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Why must it be a Zenner ? What is the application ? Will you use it as a clamp to prevent over-voltage ?

A Si Zenner has minimum temp-co near 6V. If you want a voltage reference, then for 1.0V, you are better using a bandgap.
 
I think this is like homework. How does one create low voltage zeners.
 
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meBigGuy said:
I think this is like homework. How does one create low voltage zeners.

I agree. Poster receives an infraction, and is advised to post in the Homework Help forums, and to show their work.
 
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