How to Identify Simple Diodes
Look for legs on the side: 1., Look for both legs under: 1., Look for pins.
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Look for legs on the side: 1.
Standard Signal
- This is the regular forward-biased diode.
2.
Zener
- Operated in reverse-biased to hold a constant voltage
3.
Small Signal
- Used for applications with a much smaller current but with much more accuracy -
Step 2: Look for both legs under: 1.
Light Emitting Diode
- Emits a colored light based on the materials used internally
2.
Photodiode
- Captures photons to generate current
3.
Infra-Red
- Emits light at the infra-red spectrum
4.
Varactor
- A reverse-biased diode used as a capacitor
5.
Schottky
- Used for precision and when voltage needs to be conserved , These will be chips in the form of a SMD (surface mounted device).
To identify these you will need to look at the number. -
Step 3: Look for pins.
Detailed Guide
Standard Signal
- This is the regular forward-biased diode.
2.
Zener
- Operated in reverse-biased to hold a constant voltage
3.
Small Signal
- Used for applications with a much smaller current but with much more accuracy
Light Emitting Diode
- Emits a colored light based on the materials used internally
2.
Photodiode
- Captures photons to generate current
3.
Infra-Red
- Emits light at the infra-red spectrum
4.
Varactor
- A reverse-biased diode used as a capacitor
5.
Schottky
- Used for precision and when voltage needs to be conserved , These will be chips in the form of a SMD (surface mounted device).
To identify these you will need to look at the number.
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