Diode Theory

Operation and Use of

Semiconductor Devices

Cleveland Institute of Electronics Diode Theory Lesson Request a Free Catalog

 Diode Theory
• What is a diode, or semiconductor for that
matter?
• If a conductor is suppose to conduct current does
that mean a semiconductor partially conducts
current?
• A diode is a device that acts like a conductor since
it allows current to pass in one direction (known
as FORWARD BIASING) and it acts as an insulator
since it blocks current passing in the opposite
direction (known as REVERSE BIASING).
 Diode Theory
• The diode is comprised of a P-type material
combined with an N-type material such as:

• Current flows from the negative terminal of

the battery to the N-type and on through the
P-type and then returns to the positive
terminal of the battery.
 Diode Theory
• When the diode is at rest it will look like:
• The P-type consists
of Holes or + charged
particles.
• The N-type consists
Of Free Electrons or
– Charged particles.
 Diode Theory
• Diode as a Conductor
• When a voltage is applied current will flow.
• This causes the Holes
to move toward the
Depletion Region and
the Free Electrons to
move toward the
Depletion Region. The
Depletion Region shrinks
allowing current to flow. This is Forward Bias.
 Diode Theory
• We will look at the diode as an insulator
• When the battery polarity is reversed, the
Holes move away from
the Depletion Region as
does the Free Electrons
expanding the Depletion
Region thus restricting
the movement of current.
This is Reverse Biasing
 Diode Theory
• The schematic symbol for a diode and how to
identify a diode.
 Diode Theory
• In our discussion, we have indicated that current
flows from cathode to anode.

• This is for Electron Current Flow but for those

using Conventional Current Flow, it is opposite.
 Diode Theory
• Diodes are also know as Rectifiers, changing
AC current into DC current in a power supply.
Diode Theory

The End