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About Step Recovery Diodes

Step recovery diodes produce an abrupt turn-off (step) time by allowing a very fast release of stored charge when switching from forward to reverse bias, and from reverse to forward bias. Single step recovery diodes consist of one diode built into the chip. Step recovery diode arrays are composed of multiple, discrete, usually unconnected diodes on a single silicon chip. Performance specifications for step recovery diodes include forward voltage, maximum allowable reverse voltage, reverse current, breakdown voltage, reverse recovery time, power dissipation, terminal capacitance, and operating temperature. Pin count and the number of embedded diodes are factors to consider when selecting an integrated circuit (IC) package. Step-recovery diodes that are sold in Europe must comply with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive from the European Union (EU).   


Products & Services Related to Step Recovery Diodes
Current Limiting Diodes
Current limiting diodes (CLD) regulate current over a wide voltage range. There are several types of current limiting diodes (CLD). Examples include a current regulator diode, constant current diode, and current limit diodes.
General Purpose Diodes
General-purpose diodes are electric components that conduct electric current in only one direction, functioning similarly to a one-way valve.
GUNN and IMPATT Diodes
Gunn diodes or transfer electron devices (TED) exhibit a negative resistance region. They are used in high-frequency applications, often for building RF oscillators. Impact ionization avalanche transit-time (IMPATT) diodes are designed to operate at very high frequency and power. They are used as elements in RF and microwave devices.
High Voltage Diodes
High voltage diodes are designed for use in high-voltage applications.
Rectifier Diodes
Rectifier diodes are designed for use in rectification circuits. Rectifiers are used to convert AC to DC.
Schottky Diodes
Schottky diodes in their simplest form consist of a metal layer that contacts a semiconductor element. The metal / semiconductor junctions exhibit rectifying behavior (i.e., the current passes through the structure more readily with one polarity than the other).
Zener Diodes
Zener diodes are PN junction devices that are designed to operate in the reverse-breakdown region.  



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