Exploring the Basics of

Semiconductors and PN
Junction Diodes

Jeremiah Apiag
jeremiahmesquared@gmail.com
 Introduction to Semiconductors

This slide introduces the concept

of semiconductors, their
properties, and their importance in
modern electronics. It covers
topics such as conductivity, band
gap, and intrinsic and extrinsic
semiconductors.
What is semiconductor?
What is PN Junction?
What is PN Junction?
Understanding PN Junction Diodes
Overview of PN Junction Diodes

Structure of PN Junction Diodes Forward Biasing

This section explains the construction and The process of applying a forward voltage to a PN
functioning of PN junction diodes, highlighting the junction diode to allow current flow is described,
role of p-type and n-type materials in creating the along with its effects.
junction.

Reverse Biasing Applications

The effects of applying a reverse voltage to a PN Various applications of PN junction diodes in
junction diode, including the depletion region and electronics, such as rectification, signal modulation,
breakdown voltage, are discussed. and light emission, are explored.
Consider a circuit with a single silicon diode in
series with a resistor R=1KΩ and a DC voltage
source Vs​=5V. Assume the diode has a threshold
voltage of 0.7 V (typical for silicon diodes).

The goal is to find the current flowing through the

diode and the voltage across the diode.
Characteristics and Applications of PN Junction Diodes
Key Characteristics and Common Uses

Current-Voltage Relationship Common Applications Temperature Dependence

The relationship between current and
voltage in a PN junction diode,
including the diode equation and
ideal vs. non-ideal behavior, is
examined.
The common uses of PN junction
diodes in everyday electronics, like
power supplies, voltage regulators,
and signal demodulation, are
discussed.
The impact of temperature on the
performance of PN junction diodes,
including temperature coefficients
and thermal runaway, is explained.
Working Principle of PN Junction Diodes
Fundamental Operation of PN Junction Diodes

Electron-Hole Pair Generation

The creation of electron-hole pairs in the depletion region of a PN
junction diode, and their role in current flow, are detailed.

Barrier Potential
The formation of a barrier potential at the junction due to the
diffusion of charge carriers, leading to rectification, is illustrated.
Types of PN Junction Diodes

This slide presents the different types of PN junction diodes,

including fast recovery diodes, schottky diodes, zener diodes,
and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Each type is defined, and its
unique characteristics and applications are discussed.
Biasing Techniques for PN Junction Diodes
Optimizing Diode Performance through Biasing

Fixed Bias
The use of a fixed voltage source to bias a diode, resulting in a constant operating point, is described.

Voltage Divider Bias

The application of a resistive voltage divider circuit to bias a diode and stabilize its operating point is explained.

Temperature Compensation
Methods to compensate for changes in diode performance due to temperature variations, such as negative temperature coefficient
resistors, are covered.
Forward and Reverse Biasing of PN Junction Diodes

This slide illustrates the differences between forward and

reverse biasing of PN junction diodes, showing the current-
voltage characteristics in each case and explaining the flow of
current.
PN Junction Diode Circuit Analysis
Analyzing Circuits with PN Junction Diodes

KVL and KCL Analysis Load Line Analysis

Techniques to apply Kirchhoff's voltage and current laws to The concept of load lines to determine the operating point of
analyze circuits containing PN junction diodes are discussed. a diode in a circuit, along with graphical analysis, is
explained.

AC Signal Analysis Small-Signal Analysis

The response of PN junction diodes to alternating current Methods for analyzing the small-signal behavior of diodes in
signals, including peak rectification and voltage regulation, is electronic circuits, such as amplification and modulation, are
explored. outlined.
Advantages and Disadvantages of PN Junction Diodes
Pros and Cons of PN Junction Diodes

Advantages
The benefits of PN junction diodes, such as low cost, fast switching
speeds, and high reliability, are highlighted.

Disadvantages
The limitations of PN junction diodes, such as temperature
sensitivity, low power handling capability, and reverse recovery
time, are discussed.
Future Trends in Semiconductors

This slide outlines upcoming advancements and innovations in semiconductor technology, including new materials,
advanced manufacturing processes, and emerging applications in areas like quantum computing and AI.
Thank You

Questions or Comments?