1N4747AGE3

Diodes come in many shapes, sizes and types; from the basic rectifier diode to the more specialized components such as the 1N4747AGE3. The 1N4747AGE3 belongs to the group of Zener diodes, more specific a single Zener diode.

A diode is an electrical component that allows current to only travel in one direction, and the applications for this are wide-ranging from protecting circuits from overvoltage, regulating the voltage applied to a circuit and controlling the current present in various components. Zener diodes are a type of specialized diode that allow for a stable, reversed-biased voltage to exist between their two terminals, and maintain this voltage irrespective of the current in the circuit.

The 1N4747AGE3 is a 5.1V single Zener diode. This is particularly well-suited for applications such as TV converters, where a stable voltage must be maintained in order to ensure proper operation. It is also used in logic circuits and DC-DC converters, where its voltage-limiting capabilities come in handy. This diode has a power rating of 500mW, which means it can handle currents up to 500mA without damage.

The principle behind the 1N4747AGE3 Zener diode, like any diode, is that an electric current, when placed between its two terminals will only travel in one direction – from the anode to cathode. When the reverse biased voltage exceeds the breakdown voltage of the component, the current will flow in the opposite direction, thus creating a flow of constant current in both directions, with the reverse current increasing in steps until it reaches the Zener voltage.

The 1N4747AGE3 is popular due to its wide temperature range, with a thermal resistance of -55oC to +125oC. This allows for operation in a wide variety of environments and temperatures, making it ideal for use in numerous applications. Its maximum reverse leak current is 0.1mA, meaning it can handle higher voltages with minimal leakage.

To summarise, the 1N4747AGE3 is a single Zener diode, used mainly in applications such as TV converters, logic and DC-DC converters. It allows for a regulated voltage to be maintained despite changing load conditions. With a wide operating temperature and a superior leak-current rate, it is a reliable component for all manner of electronic devices.