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

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the fabrication of a Zener diode with a breakdown voltage of 1V, which is challenging due to the limitations of silicon, where the minimum achievable voltage is approximately 2.5V. Participants suggest alternatives such as using germanium with high doping levels or employing a bandgap voltage reference for low-voltage applications. A specific 1V Zener diode from MicroSemi is referenced, indicating that such components exist, but the original poster is seeking guidance on manufacturing techniques and materials. The conversation also touches on the importance of understanding the application context for such low-voltage devices.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of semiconductor physics and diode operation
  • Familiarity with Zener diode characteristics and applications
  • Knowledge of doping processes in semiconductor fabrication
  • Experience with bandgap voltage references and their applications
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  • Research the fabrication techniques for germanium-based Zener diodes
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  • Explore the design and characteristics of low-voltage Zener diodes from MicroSemi
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Electrical engineers, semiconductor researchers, and anyone involved in the design and fabrication of low-voltage electronic components.

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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