Diode Parameters

Diodes are manufactured in accordance with voltage and current ratings. This must be taken into account when choosing a diode for a particular circuit. Most of these parameters are temperature related and the manufactures state the parameters as a function of temperature.

Application of PN junction diodes

Diodes are used in rectifier circuits to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). In a rectifier circuit diodes may be connected in parallel or series for rectification purpose.

Diodes connected in series

When diodes are connected in series to a load the current passing through each diode will be the same. However there will be a small amount of voltage drop across each diode. Total voltage drop is calculated by adding the voltage drop across each diode. 

Diodes connected in parallel

When diodes are connected in parallel, voltage across each diode remain the same while the current will be divided among the diodes. The amount of current passing through each diode depends on the characteristics of each diode.