Anti-reverse(One Way) diodes, also known as Zener diodes, are a special type of diode used in voltage stabilization and voltage regulation applications. Its special feature is that it can maintain a stable voltage under a specific reverse voltage.
The voltage stabilization characteristics of the anti-reverse diode are realized by its special structure and material composition. Under forward voltage, anti-reverse diodes behave similarly to ordinary diodes, with on and off characteristics. Under reverse voltage, when the voltage exceeds the rated voltage of the anti-reverse diode (called blocking voltage or Zener voltage), the anti-reverse diode will start to conduct and maintain a stable voltage at this voltage. This voltage stabilizing feature allows anti-reverse diodes to be used as voltage regulators or voltage reference sources.
Anti-reverse diodes have a wide range of applications, common applications include:
Voltage regulator: The anti-reverse diode can be used as a voltage regulator to provide a stable voltage output. It can stabilize the input voltage at a specific blocking voltage value, which is used to protect other circuit components from excessively high or low voltage.
Voltage reference source: Since the anti-reverse diode can provide a stable voltage output, it is often used as a reference source in the circuit. For example, in an analog circuit, an anti-reverse diode can be used as a reference voltage source or a comparison voltage source.
Overvoltage Protection: Anti-reverse diodes can also be used in overvoltage protection circuits. When the voltage in the circuit exceeds the blocking voltage, the anti-reverse diode turns on, bypassing the excess voltage around critical components to protect them from damage.