What is a Zener diode? - Electronics

What is a Zener diode?

Zener diodes are a special type of semiconductor diode (instruments which allow only one direction of flow of current) which also allow current to flow in the opposite direction when exposed to enough voltage.

-They have been designed to have their reverse breakdown occur at a specific, well-defined voltage (its “Zener voltage”),
-They can be operated be operated continuously in the breakdown region.
-Commonly available Zener diodes are available with breakdown voltages (“Zener voltages”) anywhere from 1.8 to 200 V.

Zener diodes are used in
i. Voltage Regulators (in shunt mode).
ii. Surge Suppressors for device protection.