1N823-1

1N823-1 Application Field and Working Principle

Introduction

1N823-1 is a type of Zener single-diode with a peak repetitive reverse voltage (VRRM) of 5V and a peak nonrepetitive reverse voltage of 6V. It shows superior performance at temperatures ranging from -50°C to +110°C. 1N823-1 is normally used for surge removal, applied as onboard protection, mainly in automotive and consumer electronics. The device combines the ability to suppress transients and continuous electrical surges, displaying the Zener diodes’ inherent fast-acting properties.

Field of Application

The device is typically used in consumer electronics and medical electronics as an onboard component, as well as in automotive applications, industrial and data communication systems. The most common use of 1N823-1 is in power supplies of consumer electronics, where it protects downstream circuits from voltage surges. It can also be used to regulate the output voltage in various types of power supplies. In automotive applications, the 1N823-1 can be found in electric motor controllers, while in data communication systems, it can be used to protect the communication lines.

Working Principle

The 1N823-1 single-diode device features an anode and cathode, which connect to the power line and the circuit component, respectively. The anode to cathode current (Ia/K) needs to remain within the current rating of the device or the diodes’ power capability. The workings of the 1N823-1 depend on the type of load connected to the cathode. When the load is connected to the cathode, the Ia/K must be held at or below the rated current for reliable operation.

Voltage-Charge Mode

In a standard consumer electronic device, the 1N823-1 can be used to protect against voltage transients. In this mode, the voltage source is charged up to its nominal level and the 1N823-1 is responsible for holding the voltage at nominal levels. When there is a surge in the source, the 1N823-1 will protect the circuit by responding quickly and clamping down the voltage to the desired level.

Current-Limiting Mode

In industrial applications, the 1N823-1 can be used for short-circuit protection. In this mode, a current limit is set for the particular circuit based on the components used. When the current exceeds that limit, the 1N823-1 will respond quickly and limit the maximum current to the desired level. This way, it protects the downstream components and ensures that the circuit does not overload.

Summary

The 1N823-1 is a single-diode Zener diode specifically designed to protect circuits from voltage surges, short circuits and overloads. It is used in various electronic applications, ranging from consumer electronics to automotive and industrial applications. It provides superior performance at temperatures ranging from -50°C to +110°C and its working principle is based on quickly responding and limiting the voltage or current to pre-defined levels.