Subject: The study of Zener diodes, parameters,

characteristics and dynamic resistance.

Zener diodes

General description:Stabilitron (Zener) diodes are designed to stabilize

or reduce voltage. It is a special kind of diode which permits current to flow in the forward

direction as normal, but will also allow it to flow in the reverse direction when the voltage is above a certain value - the breakdown voltage known as

the Zener voltage.

Zener diodeParameters:

a) breakdown voltage - UZ

b) breakdown current - IZ

c) forward bias voltage UF d) reverse current IR e) the dynamic resistance whose value changes with the change of voltage stability

f) Temperature ratio voltage stabilization factor - aUz.

Zener diodeThe V-I characteristics

UZ – breakdown voltage UF – forward voltage

IR – reverse current

Zener diodeExamples of Zener diode stabilization

Zener diodes are used to regulate voltage across small circuits. Zener diodes are often used as stable references

for more advanced voltage regulator circuits.

a) diagram

c) Current-voltage characteristic of a zener diode 

The project is realized with the finance support of the European Commission within the

"Longlife learning program".

The presentation was made as a result of the Leonardo da Vinci project titled "Your future career prospects" carried out

in "Zespół Szkół Zawodowych" no 3 in Katowice

between 2011 and 2013.

The publication reflects the standpoint of the authors only and neither the European Commission nor the National Agency bear responsibility for the essential contents included in the

presentation and for the way of using the enclosed information.

Thank you for your attention.

Authors:

Krzysztof Krzebietke

Łukasz Brożyna

February 2012