What is a diode A diode is a semiconductor device that has two terminals, an anode and a cathode, and allows current to flow only in one direction (from the anode to the cathode, known as the forward direction). Current does not flow in the reverse direction, except for special cases,...
When the cathode is negatively charged relative to the anode at a voltage greater than a certain minimum, called forward breakover, then current flows through the diode. If the cathode is positive with respect to the anode, is at the same voltage as the anode or is negative by an amount l...
Final Thoughts Though small and simple, the diode is an essential part of modern electrical systems. By controlling the flow and direction of current, diodes enable countless applications of modern electronics. Fortunately, tools like digital multimeters make it easy to measure diode health and determ...
Techopedia Explains Diode The two terminals of a diode are polarized, with the positive end called an anode and the negative end called a cathode. The cathode is usually silver or has a color band. Control of current flow direction is one of the key features of diodes — the current in ...
Key Functions of a Diode The most common function of a diode is to let the electric current run in one direction (known as the diode’s forward direction), even as it blocks the flow in the other/ opposite direction (aka the reverse). In a manner of speaking, the diode is an electro...
When a positive voltage is applied to the n-type layer and a negative voltage to the p-type layer, the diode is said to be forward-biased, and current flows through the junction. Conversely, when the voltage polarity is reversed, the diode is reverse-biased, and the curre...
An ESD protection diode is a type of Zener diode. When a diode is reverse-biased, little current flows from cathode to anode. However, when the reverse bias exceeds a certain point (called the reverse breakdown voltage), the reverse current suddenly increases. As the reverse bias ...
What is the difference between N-type and P-type semiconductors? An N-type semiconductor carries current mainly in the form of negatively charged electrons similar to the conduction of current in a wire. A P-type semiconductor carries current predominantly as electron deficiencies called holes. A ...
An ESD protection diode is a type of Zener diode optimized for ESD protection applications. It is used to protect an IC from excessive voltage (e.g., ESD) higher than the rated withstand voltage that enters a board via an externally exposed port such as a USB port. ES...
A blocking diode is a diode placed in an electrical circuit for the purpose of preventing electrical current from flowing in a specific direction. By function, all diodes block electrical current; however, blocking diodes are used specifically to prevent a reverse flow of electrical power in order...