Zener Diode – Voltage Regulation 3 V
⚡ Zener Diode – Voltage Regulation Component
Available in 2.7V,3.3V, 5.1V, 6.2V, 10V, etc.
The Zener Diode is a special type of diode designed to allow current to flow in the reverse direction when a specific breakdown voltage (called the Zener voltage) is reached. It is commonly used for voltage regulation, overvoltage protection, and reference voltage applications.
⚙️ General Specifications (Example: 1N4733A – 5.1V Zener)
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Zener Diode |
| Zener Voltage | 2.7V – 10V (varies by model) |
| Power Rating | 0.5W or 1W (typical) |
| Package | DO-35 or DO-41 (glass axial) |
| Max Zener Current | ~50 mA (depending on rating) |
| Tolerance | ±5% (typical) |
| Polarity | Cathode marked with black band |
✅ Features
🔋 Maintains a stable output voltage under varying load
🔧 Used in voltage regulation circuits
🛡️ Provides overvoltage protection for sensitive components
📐 Compact and easy to integrate in breadboards and PCBs
💡 Ideal for Arduino, power supplies, chargers, and analog circuits
📎 Symbol & Orientation
Cathode |––|<|––| Anode | ^ Zener direction Band
Cathode = Band side
Breaks down at Zener voltage in reverse bias
🧪 Example Application: 5V Regulator with Zener
You can create a basic 5V regulated supply using a 5.1V Zener + resistor:
+10V ──►──[ 470Ω ]───+───►── LOAD | [Zener] | GND