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The diode passes current in one direction and does not pass it in the other direction. This is the case only in theory. There is a voltage that causes the diode to let current through in the opposite direction. But a Zener diode is designed to let current through sharply at a well-defined threshold voltage. As a result, too high a voltage does not reach (in theory) the parts protected by the Zener diode.

Zener diodes are often used in pairs:

Zener-pair.png.b34b6832f05f095d1f182a4329481cae.png

When you have element at hand, or on circuit, you should check its specification and charts like:

Zener-graph.png.4ac2ed29a196dff5a3f5fbb510e246c3.png

..and read Wikipedia about it for general information..

ps. Not without a reason people invented RTFM.

https://www.google.com/search?q=RTFM

 

 

46 minutes ago, Sensei said:

ps. Not without a reason people invented RTFM.

How w

 

2 hours ago, johnsri said:

Hello

what is application of Zener diode in smps

ell do those learning English do with acronyms ?  +1

 

An SMPS is a Switched Mode Power Supply.

Switched mode power supplies often also incorporate a voltage change and use an inductor and or transformer for this.

Inductive switching generates large reverse voltage spikes known as backswing which can damage semiconductors when they are reverse connected.

(see Sensei's graph)

Zener diodes are used as protection to limit (called clamping) the size of the backswing voltage to a safe level.

A second use is to clamp the voltage created on the storageor reservoir capacitor, which stores the switched pulses, to the desired level.

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