A diode is an electronic component which has two electrodes named as anode and cathode. The diodes are made by semiconductors such as germanium, silicon and selenium.
The diodes found many applications in electrical and electronics field such as rectifier, voltage regulators, switches, signal demodulators, signal modulators, signal mixers, and oscillators.
Why do we need to use the diode in our circuit ?
Since, the main function of the diode is to allow the flow of electric current in one direction (also known as forward bias of the diode) and does not allows the electric current to flow in the opposite direction (also known as reverse bias of the diode).
We can use the diode as an electric valve in the place where we need the flow of electric current in just a single direction or we need to protect our circuit or components from the negative or reverse current.
There are two type of diodes you will find in the DCACLAB.
- Simple diode (Schottky Diode)
- Zener diode
We will keep introducing the type of diodes to our virtual. Below are the steps you need to follow in order to use the diodes in DCACLAB.
Steps to use Schottky Diode in Lab
Step 1: Browse through the list of devices and components in the above list and locate the icon of a diode as shown in the screenshot below.
Step 2: Click on the icon of the diode as shown in the screenshot above, a diode will appear on the board as shown below.
Step 3: Connect the anode and cathode of the diode in the circuit as per your need.
Steps to use Zener Diode in Lab
Step 1: Browse through the list of devices and components in the above list and locate the icon of a zenner diode as shown in the screenshot below.
Step 2: Click on the icon of the zener diode as shown in the screenshot above, a zener diode will appear on the board as shown below.
Step 3: Connect the zener diode in the circuit as per your need.
Making a rectifier with the help of diodes
Above is the circuit of full wave rectifier which is made up of diodes. The diodes are arranged in an order so that they combines both the negative as well as positive half cycle of the AC voltage in order to form a DC voltage.
The DC voltage generated after the rectification does still has the pulse property which is filtered with the help of capacitor or inductor.