Zener diode reverse breakdown example

243

02:12:17

Simple example of zener knee or reverse polarity breakdown for which these devices are commonly used in dc circuits for voltage regulation. Note that all lamps used on right are rated for same 20v duty. As zener value increases, voltage available to lamps is reduced causing the lamps to glow less brightly. Added led's on power supply to show that as polarity reverses, full voltage is available as the zener's act as normal diodes when forward biased allowing full current and lamp's glow at equal brightness. d...

Changed power supply to square wave +30/-30 v to more clearly show operation.

published 10 years ago

UncleRick

10 years ago

VERY NICE illustration, Thumper! Thanks.

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