Understanding Diodes in

Industrial Electronics
Introduction
 What is Diode?
 How Diode Constructed?
What is a Diode?
Definition of a diode:
A diode is a semiconductor device that allows current
to flow in one direction while blocking it in the other.
KEY FUNCTION:

Diodes act like electrical check valves, allowing current to flow one way
but not the other.
Types of Diodes
Rectifier Diodes Zener Diodes Light-Emitting Diodes
(LEDs)
Basic Diode Operation
● The P-N junction creates a
depletion region that blocks
electron flow.
● Forward bias reduces the depletion
region barrier, allowing current to
flow.

As an example:
Semiconductor
Material
● Silicon and Germanium are commonly used in diodes.

● Silicon is favored for its temperature stability and

reliability in industrial applications.
Diode Construction
● The P-N junction is formed by combining P-type and N-type
semiconductor materials.

● Doping introduces specific impurities to modify electrical

properties.

● Different diode types may have distinct construction methods,

such as Schottky diodes with metal-semiconductor junctions.
P-N Junction
● Explanation of the P-N junction:
● It's the boundary between the P-type and N-type
regions.
● Electron flow occurs when forward-biased, overcoming
the junction barrier.
Diode
Encapsulation
● Encapsulation materials protect diodes from
environmental factors like moisture and dust.
● Common encapsulation types include glass,
plastic, and metal cases.
Forward Bias
Reverse Bias
Diode
Characteristics
● Forward voltage drop (Vf) varies with diode
type and material.
● Reverse breakdown voltage (Vr) is crucial for
voltage tolerance.
Applications in Industrial Electronics

Examples of industrial applications:

● Power supplies: Rectifier diodes convert AC to DC for stable power.

● Voltage regulation: Zener diodes maintain constant voltage levels in
circuits.
● Signal processing: Diodes are used in clipping and clamping circuits.
● Emphasize the importance of proper diode selection for reliable operation.