What is Diode - Basic Idea

A diode is a two-terminal semiconductor device that passes current in one direction.

In simple word, it creates the lowest resistance in one direction and the highest resistance create in the opposite direction.

In other words, when we combine the P-N Junction of  P and N region in one glass cover or any metal cover and only wire show in this cover, that is called a diode. P side is called Anode and N side is called Cathode.

How to Identify anode and cathode side of Diode?

In normally we see 2 colors in this electronic component diode. Black and White.

Black color fill in hole diode that is called anode.

And little white color side is called cathode.

What is a diode Symbol?

Diode symbol is    

How many type of Diode?

There are several type of diodes, each with their own characteristics and specific uses. Some common types of diodes include:

• Standard silicon diodes:

These are the most basic type of diodes and are used in a wide range of applications. They have a low forward voltage drop and are relatively inexpensive.

• Schottky diodes: 

These diodes have a lower forward voltage drop compared to standard silicon diodes, making them more efficient. They are often used in high-frequency circuits and power supplies.

• Light-emitting diodes (LEDs):

 These diodes emit light when a current is passed through them. They are widely used in indicator lights, displays, and lighting systems.

• Zener diodes:

 These diodes are designed to operate in the reverse-bias mode and are used for voltage regulation and as reference sources.

• Photodiodes:

 These diodes convert light into electrical current. They are widely used in optical detectors, sensors and photovoltaic devices.

• Tunnel diodes: 

These diodes have a negative resistance region and are used in oscillator and amplifier circuits.

• Varactor diodes: 

These diodes are used for frequency modulation and voltage-controlled capacitance.

• Gunn diodes: 

These diodes are used in microwave generators, oscillators, and amplifiers.