crwdns2933803:010crwdne2933803:0
crwdns2933797:0Arthur Shicrwdnd2933797:0crwdne2933797:0
crwdns2936043:0crwdne2936043:0 crwdns2933505:0crwdne2933505:0 Arthur Shi
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| [title] Diode basics | |
| - | [* black] A diode is a device that allows current to easily flow through it in one direction. It's commonly found in power supplies and converters. |
| - | [* black] A light emitting diode (LED) is a popular sub-category of diodes that light up as current flows through it. LEDs work only when they're connected in the correct direction. |
| - | [* black] The diode |
| + | [* icon_note] A diode is a device that allows current to easily flow through it in one direction: from the anode end to the cathode. Diodes are commonly found in power supplies and converters. |
| + | [* icon_note] A light emitting diode (LED) is a popular sub-category of diodes that light up as current flows through it. LEDs work only when they're connected in the correct orientation. |
| + | [* icon_note] A diode's cathode (or "output" end) is marked with a white band. An LED's cathode is normally the short lead. |
| + | [* icon_note] In order for the diode to turn on and let current through, the voltage at the anode (input) has to surpass a threshold. This is known as the ''forward bias'' or ''forward threshold voltage''. The threshold voltage can be 0.6V-5V. |
| + | [* icon_note] If voltage is applied to the cathode (output) end, the diode will resist current flow up to a certain voltage limit. This is known as the ''breakdown voltage''. If the voltage surpasses the breakdown voltage, the diode will burn out and act like a short circuit. |
| + | [* icon_note] Diodes (including LEDs) are normally very robust and won't break down even under extended use. They break mostly because they're installed in reverse, or if they're unintentionally shorted during testing. |