ZM4738A-GS18

Diodes - Zener - Single

The ZM4738A-GS18 Diode is a single Zener diode tailored to operate in a wide range of applications. It is a three-terminal device with a central active region and two terminals, the anode and cathode, connected either side. The major advantage of the ZM4738A-GS18 is its simplicity and ease of use. The operation is straightforward and requires only a few components.

Application Field

ZM4738A-GS18 is widely used in many industries such as automotive, RF and microwave, and medical. Initially designed as a low-voltage power rectifier, the versatile ZM4738A-GS18 diode has a broad range of applications.

• Automotive applications
• Power conditioning
• Clipping Circuits
• Voltage stabilization
• Choke Circuits
• RF & Microwave
• Medical & industrial

Working Principle

The ZM4738A-GS18 diode operates in three distinct modes, which are the conduction, reverse breakdown, and forward breakdown. In the forward conduction mode, current flows from the anode to the cathode and the diode acts as a low resistance path. The reverse breakdown mode, or Zener breakdown, occurs when a reverse voltage is applied and the diode starts to conduct in the reverse direction. This Zener breakdown occurs because of the combined effects of avalanche and Zener breakdowns. The avalanche breakdown occurs due to increased electric field, while the Zener breakdown occurs due to high electric field and high concentration of charge carriers in the junction. The forward breakdown is caused by increased static electric field which causes the electrons and holes to quickly deplete and the diode breaks down.

In addition, the ZM4738A-GS18 diode contains a built-in thermal protection system, with an operating temperature range of −55°C to +150°C. Overall, the ZM4738A-GS18 diode provides an optimized solution for many applications. It is an efficient and cost-effective device with great performance.