How Zener Diodes Work -- DC to Daylight 05

In this episode, we explore the Zener diode and the differences between Zener and avalanche action. Both types of Zener diodes are analyzed on a makeshift curve tracer, while we discuss briefly the differences between quantum tunneling and the avalanche effect. Then we go through a basic example of using the Zener as a voltage reference.

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Derek (DCtoDaylight) over 3 years ago in reply to wackyvorlon +1

Absolutely. You can use zeners back to back, selecting the appropriate voltage to clip the signal at whatever voltage needed. Good for squaring off an AC signal for zero-crossing detector, or for frequency…

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wackyvorlon over 3 years ago

I have heard of using zener diodes in series to square up a signal cheaply. What do you think of that application?
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Derek (DCtoDaylight) over 3 years ago in reply to wackyvorlon

Absolutely. You can use zeners back to back, selecting the appropriate voltage to clip the signal at whatever voltage needed. Good for squaring off an AC signal for zero-crossing detector, or for frequency detection.
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Derek (DCtoDaylight) over 3 years ago in reply to wackyvorlon

Absolutely. You can use zeners back to back, selecting the appropriate voltage to clip the signal at whatever voltage needed. Good for squaring off an AC signal for zero-crossing detector, or for frequency detection.
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