Diode
Electronic Component Report
Saja Qais
1. Introduction to the Electronic Component
A diode is a fundamental electronic component that allows current to flow in one
direction only. It acts as a one-way switch for electrical current and is widely used
in power supplies, communication systems, and digital electronics. The diode is
formed by joining a p-type and an n-type semiconductor, creating a p-n junction.
This p-n junction gives the diode its unique property of directionality.
Basic symbol and physical appearance of a diode
2. How the Diode Works
The diode operates based on semiconductor physics. When the anode (positive
side) is connected to a higher voltage than the cathode (negative side), the diode
becomes forward-biased, and current flows. When the polarity is reversed
(reverse-biased), the diode blocks the current.
Forward Bias:
• The external voltage overcomes the potential barrier at the p-n junction.
• Electrons and holes move across the junction, allowing current flow.
Reverse Bias:
• The external voltage increases the barrier, preventing current.
• Only a tiny leakage current flows.
Illustration of diode behavior in forward and reverse bias
3. Features, Types, and Shapes of the Diode
Features:
• Unidirectional Conductivity
• Fast Switching Response
• High Efficiency
• Small Size and Lightweight
Types of Diodes:
1. Standard Diode – Used in general circuits.
2. Zener Diode – Used for voltage regulation.
3. Light Emitting Diode (LED) – Emits light when conducting.
4. Schottky Diode – Has low forward voltage drop, fast switching.
5. Photodiode – Generates current when exposed to light.
6. Tunnel Diode – Used in high-speed switching applications.
Shapes and Packages:
• Cylindrical with a band indicating the cathode.
• Surface-mount devices (SMD).
• Glass encapsulated for small signal diodes.
Various diode types and their packages
4. Specifications of the Diode
Different types of diodes have different electrical ratings. For example, a 1N4007
(common silicon diode) has:
• Forward Voltage Drop (Vf): 0.7V (Silicon), 0.3V (Germanium)
• Maximum Reverse Voltage (Vr): Up to 1000V
• Forward Current (If): Up to 1A
• Reverse Leakage Current: A few µA (microamperes)
For LEDs:
• Forward Voltage: 1.8V to 3.3V depending on color
• Current Rating: Usually 20 mA
5. How to Connect the Diode
• Anode (A): Connected to the positive side of the power source.
• Cathode (K): Connected to the negative side (marked with a stripe).
Important Notes:
• Reversing the diode in a circuit can prevent current flow or damage
components.
• In AC to DC conversion, diodes must be arranged carefully to allow proper
rectification.
Proper orientation and connection in a circuit
6. How to Test the Diode
You can test a diode using a digital multimeter in diode mode:
Steps:
1. Set the multimeter to diode test mode.
2. Place the red probe on the anode and black on the cathode:
o A reading of ~0.6V to 0.7V indicates a working diode.
3. Reverse the probes:
o The meter should show "OL" (open line), meaning no current flow.
If the diode shows low resistance in both directions, it’s damaged (shorted). If it
shows "OL" both ways, it’s open (broken).
Multimeter testing a diode
7. Circuits That Use the Diode & Circuit Diagrams
Common Applications:
1. Rectifiers – Converting AC to DC
o Half-Wave Rectifier
o Full-Wave Bridge Rectifier
2. Voltage Regulation – Using Zener Diodes
3. LED Circuits – Indication and lighting
4. Clipping & Clamping Circuits – Signal modification
5. Reverse Polarity Protection
Conclusion
The diode is an essential electronic component with various types suited for
different functions. From rectifying current to lighting LEDs and protecting
circuits, diodes play a central role in electronics. Understanding their properties,
connection methods, and testing procedures is crucial for designing reliable
electronic systems.
References
1. Boylestad, R. L., & Nashelsky, L. (2012). Electronic Devices and Circuit
Theory (11th ed.). Pearson Education.
2. Sedra, A. S., & Smith, K. C. (2020). Microelectronic Circuits (8th ed.).
Oxford University Press.
3. Floyd, T. L. (2017). Electronic Devices (10th ed.). Pearson.
4. Horowitz, P., & Hill, W. (2015). The Art of Electronics (3rd ed.). Cambridge
University Press.
5. Malvino, A. P., & Bates, D. (2019). Electronic Principles (8th ed.).
McGraw-Hill Education.
6. All About Circuits. (n.d.). Diodes and Rectifiers. Retrieved from:
[Link]
7. Electronics Tutorials. (n.d.). Diode Tutorial. Retrieved from:
[Link]
