Diodes

Diode Bridge: Four Diodes That Convert From AC to DC

The diode bridge rectifier is a simple circuit used to convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). In this guide, you’ll learn how it works, what it’s used for, and how you can build your own.

diode bridge circuit

Even though you may not notice it, the diode bridge rectifier is everywhere. It’s used for transforming the AC voltage from your wall outlet into a DC voltage that your devices can use.

So when you charge your phone or laptop, or you turn on the TV, there’s often a diode bridge working its magic in the back.

Laser Diode: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

A laser diode is a cool component that you can do a lot of fun stuff with, from engraving wood to creating a light show or giving your robot eyes! They range from super cheap (or even free if you can find one in an old CD player!) to more expensive.

Most types are really easy to use too, once you learn the basics. In this article, you’ll learn the basics of laser diodes and how to use them in your own projects. In the end, I’ll show you how to create your own invisible tripwire!

Laser diode illustration

Schottky Diode: A Beginner’s Guide

In this guide, you will discover what a Schottky diode is and how it can be used in electronic circuits.

Did you know that Schottky diodes, unlike other diodes, are formed by the junction of a semiconductor material with a piece of metal? That’s gives it some special properties that can come in handy.

Schottky symbol and packaging
Single Schottky Diode (left) and a Schottky Pair (right)

What Is a Schottky Diode?

Diodes are components that normally only let current flow in one direction. Like a regular diode, the Schottky diode allows current to flow in the forward direction when enough forward voltage is applied.

Schottky diode symbol
Schottky Diode Symbol

However, while a regular PN junction diode is made by connecting p-type and n-type semiconductors, the Schottky uses metals like gold, tungsten, platinum, or aluminum instead of the p-type semiconductors. 

Photodiode – A Beginner’s Guide

In this guide you are going to learn what a photodiode is, how it works, and more importantly, how you can use it in your own circuits. We’ll go through the basics, then build a fully working fire sensor circuit! Did you know that there are two different ways to use photodiodes? Both of them

Zener Diode Basics (A Beginner’s Guide)

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how a Zener diode works and how to use it in circuits.

Did you know that some of the common things you can build with Zener diodes include simple power supplies and guitar pedals?

Sounds interesting? Let’s jump in!

Zener Diode symbol

Rectifier Diode: Guide to Functionality and Circuits

The rectifier diode lets you convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). In this guide, you are going to learn how this component works and some of the circuits you create by using one. Diodes are one of the basic electronic components in electronics. There are many types of diodes, but the most common

What is a Diode? A Guide For Beginners

A diode is a component that lets current flow in one direction and blocks it from flowing in the other direction. It has two pins; anode and cathode.

The diode symbol looks like an arrow pointing toward a line. The line represents the cathode side, and so does the line marking on the diode component itself. In the picture above, the line marking is on the left side, so that’s the cathode side.

Diode symbol and diode markings showing anode and cathode

Types of Diodes

A diode is a component that only conducts electricity in one direction. It is commonly used to convert from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC).Types of diodes - signal diode

Several types of diodes exist. And it can be a bit confusing if you have never worked with diodes before.

I would like to share the most standard types of diodes that are commonly used by hobbyists.