Zenerjännitettä

Zenerjännitettä, often referred to as the Zener voltage, is a specific voltage value for a Zener diode. When a Zener diode is reverse-biased, it is designed to break down at a precise and stable voltage. This breakdown voltage is known as the Zener voltage, denoted as Vz. Unlike a standard diode which can be damaged by reverse breakdown, a Zener diode can operate continuously in its breakdown region without being harmed, as long as the current through it stays within its rated limits. This characteristic makes Zener diodes extremely useful for voltage regulation.

The Zener voltage is determined by the doping concentration of the semiconductor material used in the diode. Higher doping levels result in a lower Zener voltage, while lower doping levels lead to a higher Zener voltage. Zener diodes are manufactured with a wide range of Zener voltages, from a few volts up to several hundred volts. The accuracy and stability of the Zener voltage are crucial for its applications. Temperature can affect the Zener voltage, though the effect is generally less pronounced for diodes with lower Zener voltages. This phenomenon is utilized in voltage reference circuits where a constant and predictable voltage is required.