BZX384B16-HE3-08

The BZX384B16-HE3-08 is a single diode of the type commonly known as a Zener diode. Such diode devices are an important component in the making of circuit boards and other electronic devices. The BZX384B16-HE3-08 Zener diode is suitable for use in a wide range of applications involving the protection and control of high electrical current.

Application Field

The most common use for the BZX384B16-HE3-08 includes industrial applications and can be used to regulate electric current, allowing for precise control, such as the balancing of electric currents. One example is when the BZX384B16-HE3-08 is used in a transformers, signal circuits and other designs to help regulate the electric current. The use of the BZX384B16-HE3-08 zener diode is also widespread in the automotive industries, especially for automotive lighting and back up power systems. The BZX384B16-HE3-08 is also found in many computers, tablets, phones and other electronics.

Working Principle

A basic Zener diode, such as the BZX384B16-HE3-08, has two different sides or terminals. It is a bipolar device, which means it is composed of two pieces of semiconductor material bonded together that affects the flow of electrical current in two different ways. The diode has two polarity contacts, the anode and the cathode. When a voltage is applied between the two contacts, the diode will allow a current to flow through it. The amount of current that flows through the diode is determined by the magnitude of the voltage that is applied across it.

In a Zener diode, the voltage is reduced below ‘Zener voltage’ as current flows into the diode, which is why it is also commonly known as a voltage-regulating diode. In other words, the BZX384B16-HE3-08 has the ability to maintain a predetermined voltage rather than letting it be determined by the changing electrical load. This is especially important in applications where accurate voltage regulation is required.

The ability of a Zener diode to maintain voltage is a two-step process. First, the Zener diode will allow a high electrical current through it, which causes a ‘reverse-bias voltage’ breakdown of the diode, thus reducing the voltage that is applied to it. Second, the Zener diode will allow the current to continue to flow through it, thus carefully controlling the amount of current that is allowed to pass through it. When the voltage is reduced below the ‘Zener voltage’, the diode will restrict the flow of current to maintain a constant level.

Conclusion

The BZX384B16-HE3-08 is a type of Zener diode device designed for use in a range of applications requiring the precise control of electric current. It works by allowing for a large electrical current to pass through it, which causes the voltage to be reduced to a predetermined level. This makes it extremely useful in applications where accurate voltage regulation is required, such as the automotive and electronics industries.