Which diode is used as a voltage regulator?

SOLUTION

• The device used for the voltage regulator is a Zener diode.
• It is used to regulate the voltage level.
• It generates a fixed output voltage that remains constant for any changes in load conditions or input voltage.

This is explained as shown:

Key Points:

• Zener diode is a PN junction (silicon PN junction) diode that has a low specified reverse voltage which takes advantage of any reverse voltage applied to it.
• It is unlike a normal diode (Schottky diode, varactor diode, tunnel diode) that blocks any flow of current through itself when reverse biased.
• From the I-V characteristics curve shown, the voltage across the diode in the breakdown region is almost constant.
• In the breakdown region, it is used in voltage regulator applications.