How Do Diodes Work? An Explanation

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the operation of semiconductor diodes, emphasizing the importance of understanding the V-I plot and the diode equation: I = I_s (e^{\frac{qV}{kT}} -1). Participants highlight the significance of recognizing both the input and output voltages in DC and AC circuits. Additionally, the conversation touches on the reverse breakdown characteristic relevant to Zener diodes and explores historical context by comparing Zener diodes to vacuum tube technology.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of semiconductor physics
  • Familiarity with the diode equation
  • Knowledge of V-I characteristics of diodes
  • Basic circuit analysis skills for DC and AC
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the V-I characteristics of Zener diodes
  • Learn about the applications of diodes in rectification and signal modulation
  • Research the historical development of vacuum tubes and their comparison to modern diodes
  • Explore advanced diode models and their implications in circuit design
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, electrical engineers, and students studying semiconductor devices will benefit from this discussion, particularly those interested in diode functionality and applications in circuits.

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I do not know much about diodes and I wanted to know if someone could explain me how do semi conductor diodes work and how do we determine in a circuit(dc and ac) the input voltage and the output voltage...
 
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The wikipedia entry for diodes is pretty good:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diode

It's important to have the V-I plot of a diode in your head when you are working on problems that include diodes. You should learn the diode equation

I = I_s (e^{\frac{qV}{kT}} -1)

and learn about the reverse breakdown characteristic (used in Zener diodes, for example).
 
Was there a vacuum tube version of a zener diode?
 
wolram said:
Was there a vacuum tube version of a zener diode?
Interesting question. So I googled +"vacuum tube" +"zener diode" and got some hits. Go to this one for example:

http://members.aol.com/sbench101/

and do a text search on Zener. That will get you down the page to one way to do it with tubes.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
berkeman said:
Interesting question. So I googled +"vacuum tube" +"zener diode" and got some hits. Go to this one for example:

http://members.aol.com/sbench101/

and do a text search on Zener. That will get you down the page to one way to do it with tubes.

Great site, Thanks berkeman.
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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