I asked several times - what a diode?
Diode - an electronic component that conducts current in one direction and blocks current in the other direction.
How to connect a diode?
Let's look at an example.
In the above circuit diode is connected in the right direction. This means that current can flow through it, so that the LED lights up.
But what happens if we connect it vice versa?
In this second circuit diode connected correctly. This means that no current will flow in the circuit, and the LED will be turned off.
Why do I need a diode?
Diodes are often used in power supplies. From the power outlet in the wall you get an alternating current (AC). Many of the devices we use, need constant current (DC). To get the direct current from the AC, we need a rectifier circuit. This circuit, which converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). Diodes are essential components in the rectifier circuits.
How does a diode?
The diode is made of PN-junction. You get PN-compound semiconductor material by taking the negative and positive adding and connecting it.
At the intersection of these two materials appears "depletion region". This depletion region acts as an insulator and refuses to pass a current.
When you apply a positive voltage on the positive side to the negative side, "Depletion layer" disappears, and the current between the two materials can flow from positive to negative side.
When you apply tension in the other direction, from the negative to the positive side, the depletion region extends and resists any flowing current.
What you need to know about diodes?
- You should make sufficient voltage in the "right" direction - from positive to negative - that the diode started to carry out the wiring. Typically this voltage is approximately 0.7 V.
- The diode has limitations and may not hold an unlimited amount of current.
- Diodes are not ideal components. If you file a voltage in the wrong direction, it will flow a little current. This current is called "leakage current".
- If you submit a sufficiently high voltage to the "wrong" direction, the diode will break and will miss the current in this direction.
types of diodes
There are many different types of diodes. The most common are signal diodes, rectifier diodes, Zener diodes and light emitting diodes (LEDs). Signal and rectifier diodes - are one and the same, except that the rectifier diodes designed for high performance.
Zener - diodes is that the breakdown voltage is used when applying the "wrong" way voltage. They act as a very stable reference voltages.
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