crwdns2933803:010crwdne2933803:0
crwdns2933797:0Arthur Shicrwdnd2933797:0crwdne2933797:0
crwdns2936043:0crwdne2936043:0 crwdns2933505:0crwdne2933505:0 Arthur Shi
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| [title] Diode basics | |
| [* icon_note] A diode is a device that allows current to easily flow through it in one direction (from the anode 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 [link|https://guide-images.cdn.ifixit.com/igi/xXWWWbVqMgRA5k2l.full|marked with a white band|new_window=true]. An LED's cathode is normally the short lead, and the plastic bulb has a flat edge. | |
| [* 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 break down and act like a short circuit. | |
| - | [* icon_note] When this happens, the diode is usually toast. Zener diodes, however, are specifically designed to breakdown |
| + | [* icon_note] When this happens, the diode is usually toast. Zener diodes, however, are specifically designed to breakdown repeatedly without being damaged. |
| [* icon_note] Diodes (including LEDs) can break either as an open-circuit or a short-circuit. If too much current flows through the "forward" direction, the diode will burn out like a fuse, creating an open-circuit. If the diode is accidentally installed in reverse, it may short-circuit. |