Diodes｜Basic
Diode Articles
A diode is a semiconductor device that primarily allows current to flow in one direction. Diodes are used for rectification, reverse-current blocking, voltage protection, switching, and RF signal control in power circuits, signal paths, and protection circuits.
This page collects TechWeb articles on diode fundamentals, diode types, characteristics, and comparisons. If you are learning what a diode is for the first time, start with “What is a pn junction?” and “What is a Diode?” to understand why a diode conducts in one direction.
If you already know the application or diode family you need, use the links below to jump to the relevant article.
Start with the Basics
- What is a pn junction?
- What Is a Diode? How It Works, Types, and Applications
- Rectifier Diodes
- Switching Diodes
- Schottky Diodes (SBD)
- Zener Diodes
- TVS Diodes
- PIN Diodes
- Diode Types and Characteristics: Static and Dynamic Characteristics, Current, Voltage, and Reverse Recovery Time
- Comparing Rectifier, Switching, Schottky, and Fast Recovery Diodes
- Schottky Diode Characteristics and Thermal Runaway
- Fast Recovery Diode (FRD) Characteristics
Read by Diode Type
Learn Characteristics and Comparisons
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you are new to diodes, start with “What is a pn junction?” and then read “What is a Diode?” This order helps you understand the semiconductor structure first, then the operation and major uses of diodes.
If you already have an application in mind, start with the diode type that matches the circuit. Use rectifier diodes for AC-to-DC rectification, switching diodes for signal switching, Schottky diodes for low forward voltage and fast switching, Zener diodes or TVS diodes for voltage protection, and PIN diodes for RF signal control.
If you are comparing multiple diode types, read the characteristics and comparison articles to review differences such as forward voltage, reverse recovery time, breakdown voltage, and leakage current.
Diodes
Basic
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Diode Articles
- What is a pn junction?
- What Is a Diode? How It Works, Types, and Applications
- Rectifier Diodes
- Switching Diode
- Schottky Barrier Diodes (SBD)
- Zener Diode
- TVS Diodes
- PIN Diodes
- Diode Types and Characteristics: Static and Dynamic Characteristics, Current, Voltage, and Reverse Recovery Time
- Comparing Rectifier, Switching, Schottky, and Fast Recovery Diodes
- Schottky Diode Characteristics and Thermal Runaway
- Fast Recovery Diode (FRD) Characteristics
Evaluation