DL5256B-TP Discrete Semiconductor Products

The DL5256B-TP is a type of diode manufactured by Diodes Incorporated. It is a single-channel Zener diode, designed for use as a voltage regulator in a wide variety of applications. This diode features a relatively wide range of operating voltages, from 5V to 56V, and a low forward voltage drop of 0.5V. The DL5256B-TP is designed to provide reliable overvoltage protection and minimize power dissipation, making it an ideal choice for many applications.

The DL5256B-TP diode is constructed with a standard p-n-n arrangement. In this arrangement, the p region is towards the anode, the n region is towards the cathode, and there is an additional layer of n material between the p and n regions. This additional layer provides a double conduction path and allows the diode to operate as a Zener. When the anode side is connected to a higher potential than the cathode side, the diode will conduct in the forward direction, with a voltage drop of 0.5V. If the voltage on the anode exceeds the Zener voltage of the diode, the device will break down and the current will flow in the reverse direction. This current will be limited to the Zener current rating specified on the datasheet.

The most common application of the DL5256B-TP is in voltage regulation. The diode is connected in series with the load, with the anode sitting at the higher voltage and the cathode sitting at the lower voltage. The diode then acts to regulate the voltage on the load, clamping it to the Zener voltage of the diode. This ensures that the voltage on the load remains within the specified range and prevents any overvoltage damage to the circuit.

The DL5256B-TP is also suitable for use in power supply circuits, providing overvoltage protection. In this application, the diode is connected in parallel with the power supply, with the anode connected to the higher voltage power rail and the cathode connected to the lower rail. Under normal operation, the diode will not conduct and the voltage on the power supply will remain constant. If the power supply voltage exceeds the Zener voltage of the diode, the diode will break down and the current will be limited to the Zener current rating. This helps to protect the circuit from any overvoltage damage.

The DL5256B-TP is also suitable for use as a rectifier diode. In this application, the diode is connected in series with the AC power source, and acts to rectify the AC signal into DC. The diode will only conduct in one direction and so it serves to direct the current in the correct direction. It is important to note, however, that the rectifier diode cannot provide any overvoltage protection and so the circuit should be designed carefully to ensure that the voltage on the load does not exceed the maximum ratings of the diode.

In summary, the DL5256B-TP is a versatile diode suitable for use in many applications. It can provide reliable overvoltage protection, regulate the load voltage within specified limits, or act as a rectifier in power supply circuits. With its wide range of operating voltages and low forward voltage drop, the DL5256B-TP is a highly reliable and cost-effective solution for voltage regulation and power supply applications.