BZX884-B3V6,315

Diodes - Zener - Single

A Zener diode is an electronic semiconductor which can be used to regulate the voltage marking a circuit. The BZX884-B3V6,315 is an example of a Zener diode. In this article, its application field as well as working principle are discussed.

Application field

Zener diodes can be used in a variety of applications. The most common application of a Zener diode involves using them to regulate voltage in a circuit. Zener diodes can also be used as voltage references, voltage multipliers, voltage-controlled switches, or stabilizers. The BZX884-B3V6,315 can be used in any of these applications, thanks to its higher than average power dissipation. In addition, it can be used as a clamping device, a transient suppressor, or even as a temperature sensing device.

In most cases, the BZX884-B3V6,315 is used as a voltage regulator, by employing either series or parallel circuit configurations. It can be used to regulate high voltages and is great for AC or DC supplies. It can also be used in constant voltage or constant current applications.

Working principle

The working principle of a Zener diode can be broken down into two different types. The first type of principle is known as avalanche breakdown, and it occurs when the external electric field causes a huge increase in current across the junction of the diode. This results in a suddenly increased voltage drop across the diode, which then causes the voltage to stabilize. This effect is further compounded by the reverse-biased nature of the diode, meaning that the reverse breakdown voltage is fixed and determined by the depletion layer.

The second working principle of a Zener diode is known as Zener breakdown, and it is caused by the presence of a reverse electric field. The presence of this electric field causes the electrons to gain sufficient energy to be able to tunnel through the potential barrier in the diode junction. This increases the current across the diode and produces an almost constant voltage drop across the junction.

The BZX884-B3V6,315 takes advantage of both of these principles, with the rock-solid breakdown voltage of 3.6V and the abilty to handle currents up to 315mA.

Conclusion

The BZX884-B3V6,315 is a Zener diode that is useful in many different applications. Its breakdown voltage of 3.6V and its ability to handle currents up to 315mA make it a reliable choice for numerous voltage regulating and protection applications.