Reverse saturation current in zener diode

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the reverse saturation current in zener diodes, specifically addressing its order before breakdown and how it varies based on different factors such as zener voltage and measurement conditions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the order of the reverse saturation current in zener diodes.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on what is meant by "order of the reverse saturation current."
  • It is noted that the reverse saturation current can vary significantly depending on the specific diode, with examples given of currents ranging from 0.1 µA to 100 µA based on zener voltage and measurement conditions.
  • Specific data is referenced from the data sheets of the 1N5221 to 1N5281 zener diode family, highlighting the leakage currents associated with different zener voltages.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a single value for the reverse saturation current, as it is acknowledged to depend on the specific diode and conditions of measurement.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the specific conditions under which the reverse saturation current is measured, nor does it clarify the assumptions behind the varying values presented.

meenu
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What is the order of the reverse saturation current before breakdown in a zener diode ?
 
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What do you mean by "order of the reverse saturation current"?
 
Depends on the diode. It can be in the order of 0.1ua or 100ua depending on the zener voltage and where you measure the leakage.

It is generally specified in the data sheet. Download a data sheet for the 1n5221 - 1n5281 family.
1n5221 is 2.4V zener at 20ma with <100uA leakage at 1V
1n5281 is 200V zener at 0.65ma with <0.1uA leakage at 150V.
 
Okk thnkuh
 

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