Understanding Diodes

Three LEDs Example

Different kind of diode

Three LEDs Schematic

Schematic diagram of three LEDs circuit

LED Symbol

Diode symbol

What is a Diode?

A diode is a semiconductor device that allows current to flow in one direction only. It acts like a one-way valve for electric current:

Current flows easily in the forward direction (anode to cathode)
Current is blocked in the reverse direction
Requires a minimum forward voltage to conduct (typically 0.7V for silicon diodes)
Diodes are used in many applications such as rectifier, crystal radio, power supply to prevent wrong polarity (plus and minus voltage), they even work as thermometer etc.

Additional Resources

Watch how diodes work in detail:

YouTube - How Diodes Work (Detailed Explanation)

Watch how to test diode:

YouTube - How to Test a Diode

Video Tutorials:

To Do

Do basic voltage regulator using 7805 (5V - voltage regulator)
Measure voltage drop alongside diode
Test if diode is working
Test to simulate diode in simulator @falstad.com/circuit
Try voltage regulator in Tinkercad @tinkercad.com

Voltage Regulator

7805 Regulator

Simple Crystal Radio

Simple crystal radio circuit using a diode

Rectification Methods

Different rectification methods: half-wave, full-wave, and bridge rectification

Power Consumption Calculators

Diode Power Calculator

Forward Voltage Drop (V): Current (A):

Power dissipation: 0 W

7805 Regulator Power Calculator

Input Voltage (V): Output Current (A):

Power dissipation: 0 W