Lecture 2 - All About Diodes
Lecture 2 - All About Diodes
1. Introduction to Electronics
Definition: Electronics is the branch of science and
engineering focused on the study and application of
electronic devices and circuits.
Key Concepts:
o Current, Voltage, Resistance, and Power
o Analog and Digital Electronics
Importance: Electronics is foundational for various
technologies, from simple devices like remote controls to
complex systems like computers and telecommunications.
2. Introduction to Diodes
Definition: A diode is a semiconductor device that allows
current to flow in one direction only, with two terminals:
an anode and a cathode.
Semiconductor Basics:
o Made from materials like silicon or germanium, which
have conductive properties between insulators and
conductors.
Applications: Diodes are used for rectification, signal
modulation, and protection against voltage spikes.
3. PN Junction Diode
Formation: Created by joining P-type and N-type
semiconductor materials.
Depletion Region: A region near the junction devoid of free
charge carriers.
Biasing:
o Forward Bias: Positive voltage applied to the P-side
and negative to the N-side, reducing the depletion
region and allowing current to flow.
o Reverse Bias: Negative voltage on the P-side, widening
the depletion region and preventing current flow.
4. Diode Characteristics
Forward and Reverse Characteristics:
o Forward Characteristic: Shows a threshold voltage
(~0.7V for silicon diodes) beyond which current starts
to flow.
o Reverse Characteristic: Shows minimal current flow
until breakdown voltage, after which large current
flows.
Ideal vs. Practical Diodes:
o Ideal Diode: Allows current in one direction with no
voltage drop.
o Practical Diode: Has a small voltage drop (~0.7V in
silicon).
Equivalent Circuit: A practical diode model includes a
series resistance and forward voltage drop.
Current Equation:
5. Diode as a Switch
Forward Bias (ON State): The diode acts as a closed switch,
allowing current to flow.
Reverse Bias (OFF State): The diode acts as an open switch,
blocking current flow.
Applications: Used in digital circuits for signal
processing, such as in logic gates.
6. Types of Diodes
Schottky Diode: Known for its low forward voltage drop,
used in high-speed switching applications.
Zener Diode: Operates in reverse breakdown without damage,
used for voltage regulation.
Tunnel Diode: Exhibits negative resistance due to quantum
tunneling, used in high-frequency applications.
Varactor Diode: Capacitance varies with reverse voltage,
used in tuning circuits.
Light Emitting Diode (LED): Emits light when forward
biased; used for indicators and displays.
Laser Diode: Emits coherent light, commonly used in optical
communications and barcode readers.
7. Applications of Diodes
Rectifiers:
o Half-Wave Rectifier: Allows one half of the AC cycle,
converting AC to pulsating DC.
o Full-Wave Rectifier: Allows both halves of the AC
cycle for a smoother DC output, using center-tapped
transformers or bridge rectifier configurations.
Clippers and Clampers:
o Clipper Circuits: Limit the voltage level of a
waveform, clipping portions of signals that exceed a
certain level.
o Clamper Circuits: Shift the DC level of a waveform
without changing the shape of the signal.
Voltage Multipliers:
o Doublers, Triplers, and Quadruplers: Circuits that
increase the peak output voltage multiple times, used
in applications like cathode ray tubes and microwave
devices.
Conclusion
Diodes are fundamental components in electronics, used in
various applications for controlling, modifying, and
directing electrical signals.
Recap: We explored the types of diodes, their
characteristics, and diverse applications, emphasizing the
versatility and essential role of diodes in electronic
systems.