1N4688 (DO35)

Diodes are a type of semiconductor device that, depending on the type, can act as a current regulator, rectifier, temperature compensator, voltage regulator, etc. In particular, one type of diode known as a Zener diode is used to regulate the voltage in certain electrical applications. The 1N4688 is a Zener diode commonly used in circuits. This article will discuss the 1N4688 and its application fields as well as its working principles.

What is a 1N4688 (DO35)?

The 1N4688 DO35 is a diode with a maximum reverse power dissipation (in watts) of 0.5 W. This diode is a 38-V Zener diode with an operating temperature range of -55°C to +125°C. It has a nominal zener voltage (in volts) of 37.3 V and a maximum reverse voltage of 40 V. Zener diodes are used in circuits to regulate the voltage by allowing current to flow in one direction, while blocking current in the reverse direction when the voltage exceeds a certain threshold. The 1N4688 is useful in applications such as voltage regulators, voltage limiters, surge and ESD protection, and more.

How Does a 1N4688 (DO35) Work?

The 1N4688 DO35 works in a very simple way. When the anode (the positive terminal) is more positive than the cathode (the negative terminal), the diode will block the current from going either way. This occurs when the voltage is below the breakdown voltage, or ‘knee-voltage’, of the Zener diode. When the anode is more negative than the cathode, the diode will allow current to pass through, and this is called forward biasing. When the current goes beyond the knee-voltage, the diode has a ‘zener’ breakdown and will allow current to flow in the reverse direction, which is known as reverse biasing.

When the 1N4688 (DO35) is reverse biased, a small amount of current passes through, which is known as its \'knee current\'. The knee current is determined by the properties of the PN semiconductor junction of the diode. The knee current is determined by the Zener voltage of the diode, so as the Zener voltage increases, so will the knee current.

1N4688 (DO35) Application Field

The 1N4688 (DO35) is mainly used for voltage regulation applications. Its high power dissipation rating and wide operating temperature range makes it a perfect choice for applications in the automotive industry, telecommunications, and other industrial applications. It is also commonly used in microprocessor circuits. As mentioned before, it is well-suited for use in voltage regulators, voltage limiters, surge and ESD protection, and more.

The 1N4688 is also used in rectifier circuits, where it acts as an electronic switch. The current will flow when the voltage is above the breakdown voltage, allowing the circuit to be changed from a ‘cease’ condition to a ‘pass’ condition. It is also used in charge pumps where the voltage can be adjusted depending on the current.

Conclusion

The 1N4688 (DO35) is a Zener diode with excellent characteristics and is suitable for a variety of applications. It can be used in voltage regulation, rectifier circuits, and charge pumps, and can handle current up to 40 V. Its wide operating temperature range and high power dissipation make it a great choice for use in many industrial applications, including the automotive industry, telecommunications, and microprocessor circuits. It is an versatile and reliable diode for a number of uses.