Zener diode

A zener diode works like a normal diode, but its working in opposite direction just fine. The voltage of an zener diode is the falling voltage in opposite direction.

And you can use it as a voltage regulator for constant voltage.

Check out my simple voltage regulator with zener diode.

A zenerdiode is the most inornate voltage regulator.

Hi MmmAaaXxx. Sometimes ago I made that circuit for that question. Maybe it will help you 😉 : http://everycircuit.com/circuit/5058693851250688

Rectifier diodes are designed to conduct when sufficiently forward biased - (ie, when the voltage at the anode is 0.2-0.7V greater than at the cathode) and block the flow of current when reverse biased. At some point, if the reverse voltage exceeds the design spec, the blocking ability diode will suddenly break down. Typically small silicon rectifiers will block up to 1kV. Small diodes generally explode at that point unless the available current is very small or the overvoltage event is very breif, the diode may survive. Zener/Avalanche diodes are designed to work like a rectifier, but with a predictable, stable reverse breakdown point. The Zener effect is distinct from Avalanche breakdown, but both

Play a role in a given diode with the zener effect dominant below 5V and avalanche above. The terms are often used interchangably. Once the breakdown point is reached the device begins conducting the voltage developed across the device remains stable provided the current is limited by rest of the circuit. ie:they are for creating reference pooints.