Zener Diode

Description

About this item:

The Zener diode is a specialized type of diode designed to operate in reverse breakdown mode at a precise voltage, known as the Zener voltage (Vz). Unlike regular diodes that block reverse current, a Zener diode safely allows current to flow in reverse once this voltage is reached, making it a critical component in voltage regulation and stabilization applications.

These diodes are widely available in various breakdown voltages (e.g., 3.3V, 5.1V, 12V, 24V), allowing them to provide fixed reference voltages in electronic circuits. They are typically rated for power dissipation between 0.5W and 5W, making them suitable for low-power signal regulation as well as higher-power voltage stabilization.

In forward bias, the diode behaves like a normal silicon diode with a forward voltage drop of approximately 0.7V. In reverse bias below breakdown, only a very small leakage current flows.

Zener diodes come in several package types, including DO-35 (signal use), DO-41 (power use), and SMD variants for compact designs.

Key Specifications

• Zener Voltage (Vz): 3.3V, 5.1V, 12V, 24V (varies by model)

• Maximum Power Rating: 0.5W to 5W

• Maximum Current (Iz max): Defined by diode rating in breakdown mode

• Forward Voltage (Vf): ~0.7V (typical for silicon)

• Reverse Current (Ir): Very low below breakdown voltage

• Package Types: DO-35, DO-41, SMD

Applications

• Voltage regulation and stabilization

• Reference voltage generation

• Overvoltage protection

• Waveform clipping and shaping

• Switching and protection circuits