What Is A Diode?

Introduction

A diode can be defined simply as an electronic component with two terminals capable of exhibiting asymmetric conductance which implies that it allows current to flow in only one direction (zero resistance) and inhibits flow of current in other direction (infinite resistance). The first semi-conductor diode was developed back in 1906.

How Does A Diode Work?

A diode works as a floodgate that opens in only one direction. This means that it will provide zero resistance in a particular direction and current will flow, however, it will provide infinite resistance if the current tried traveling in opposite direction and therefore the current won’t be able to flow.

Types Of Diode

• Thermionic diodes
• Semiconductor diodes
• Electronic symbols
• Point-contact diodes
• Junction diodes
• p–n junction diode
• Schottky diode
• Avalanche diodes
• Cat’s whisker or crystal diodes
• Constant current diodes
• Esaki or tunnel diodes
• Gunn diodes
• Light-emitting diodes (LEDs)
• Laser diodes
• Thermal diodes
• Photodiodes
• PIN diodes
• Schottky diodes
• Super barrier diodes
• Gold-doped diodes
• Snap-off or Step recovery diodes
• Stabistors or Forward Reference Diodes
• Transient voltage suppression diode (TVS)
• Varicap or varactor diodes
• Zener diodes

Applications Of Diode

• Radio demodulation
• Power conversion
• Over-voltage protection
• Logic gates
• Ionizing radiation detectors
• Temperature measurements
• Current steering
• Waveform Clipper
• Clamper

Precautionary Measures

• When a circuit is live; diode should not be inserted or removed.
• Diodes should never be pried in order to loosen them from circuit.
• Soldering of diodes should be performed so that the diode is not exposed to excessive heat.
• During the testing of a diode ensure that the test voltage is lower than the diode’s maximum allowable voltage.
• You should never place your finger between a signal diode.
• Make sure you keep the diode’s direction in mind when installing it.