ZM4742A-GS18 Discrete Semiconductor Products

Diodes - Zener - Single

The ZM4742A-GS18 diode belongs to the single Zener diode series and is a high temperature, reliable and stable semiconductor device. In the series, a small voltage drop is generated when the reverse breakdown voltage is reached. This voltage drop is the unique attribute of the Zener diode which makes it ideal for applications that require high stability across a wide range of temperatures and environments. Additionally, this particular diode has an operating temperature range of -55°C to +125°C and reverse breakdown voltage of 18V.

Application field and working principle

ZM4742A-GS18 single Zener diode is used for voltage regulation and reference voltage circuits. In the former, the diode is connected in parallel with a resistor and the output is connected to a load. When the input is applied to the circuit, the diode will conduct current from the source to the load, and when the input voltage exceeds the reverse breakdown voltage, the diode will act as a shunt and the voltage across the load will remain constant. This is achieved by the diode operating in an avalanche breakdown state, where a large number of electrons are ejected from the diode’s junction which results in a large current flow.

ZM4742A-GS18 can also be used as a reference voltage source in circuits. In this application, the diode is connected in series with a resistor and the output is connected to the reference voltage. When the voltage across the resistor is greater than the breakdown voltage, the diode will start conducting current and the voltage across it will remain constant. This makes it easy to obtain a precise and stable reference voltage source, which can be used to accurately regulate other electronic devices.

ZM4742A-GS18 single Zener diode is also used for surge protection and transient control. In this application, a diode is connected across a load and the voltage drop across the diode reduces transients and surges. This feature helps to reduce the detrimental effects of overvoltages by providing a path for the current to bypass the load, thereby protecting the load from any unexpected voltage fluctuations.

Apart from these, ZM4742A-GS18 single Zener diode can also be used for voltage clamping. In this application, the diode is connected in series with a load, and the voltage across the load remains constant until the input exceeds the breakdown voltage. When this happens, the diode conducts current, clamping the voltage across the load and preventing further increases or decreases in voltage. This feature helps reduce noise, spikes and overvoltage surges that can otherwise cause damage to electronic components.

In summary, ZM4742A-GS18 single Zener diode is a reliable device for voltage regulation and reference voltage circuits, surge protection and transient control, as well as for voltage clamping applications. It is a high temperature and low power consumption device, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.