Modifications

== Zener Diodes ==

== Zener Diodes ==

Zener diodes are the weird outcast of the diode family. They’re usually used to intentionally '''conduct reverse current'''. Zener’s are designed to have a very precise breakdown voltage, called the '''zener breakdown''' or '''zener voltage'''. When enough current runs in reverse through the zener, the voltage drop across it will hold steady at the breakdown voltage.

La diode Zener est l'enfant bizarre de la famille des diodes. Elles sont intentionnellement utilisées pour '''conduire du courant en sens inverse''' (''reverse current''). Les diodes Zeners sont conçues pour avoir une tension d'avalanche Vbr (''breakdown voltage'') bien précise. Cette tension est appelée '''zener breakdown''' ou '''tension zener'''. La diode Zener est également prévue pour fonctionner en toute sécurité dans la zone Vbr.

 

When enough current runs in reverse through the zener, the voltage drop across it will hold steady at the breakdown voltage.

Taking advantage of their breakdown property, Zener diodes are often used to create a known reference voltage at exactly their Zener voltage. They can be used as a voltage regulator for small loads, but they’re not really made to regulate voltage to circuits that will pull significant amounts of current.

Taking advantage of their breakdown property, Zener diodes are often used to create a known reference voltage at exactly their Zener voltage. They can be used as a voltage regulator for small loads, but they’re not really made to regulate voltage to circuits that will pull significant amounts of current.