Selecting the appropriate Zener diode for a specific application requires careful consideration of several key parameters. These parameters include the desired breakdown voltage, power dissipation, and reverse leakage current.
The breakdown voltage of a Zener diode is the voltage at which it begins to conduct in the reverse direction. This voltage is typically specified at a specified reverse current, such as 1 mA. The power dissipation of a Zener diode is the maximum amount of power that it can dissipate without exceeding its maximum junction temperature. The reverse leakage current is the current that flows through the diode in the reverse direction when it is not in breakdown.
