PIN diodes are type of diode (a device that transmits current primarily in one direction) with a wide area of pure semiconductor material in the middle. This area allows the PIN diode to store large amounts of charge. Unlike zener diodes, which generate low power to protect circuits from over-voltage, PIN diodes are specifically designed for use with in high-frequency or high-voltage applications.
How do PIN diodes work?
A PIN diode works using what is known as high-level injection: it will only start to conduct current once the central area of pure semiconductor material reaches a certain level of charge. Because this creates an electrical field that extends deep into the area, it speeds up the transport of charge carriers from one end of the diode to the other. This in turn speeds up the diode's performances.
Applications for PIN diodes
PIN diodes are often used in RF protection circuits, attenuators, fast switches, photo detectors and high-voltage electronics applications.
Description:
Resistor-equipped bipolar transistors, also known as “Digital Transistors”
or “Bias Resistor Transistors”, incorporating one or two integrated resistors. A single series input resistor, or a potential divider of two resistors, allows these devices to be directly driven from digital sources. ...
Description:
Whether you are working on a new design,
or purchasing, ON Semiconductor provides you with industry-standard diodes and rectifiers, small signal diodes, Schottky and Zener diodes. The components offer the best available combination of quality, features, and packaging options.
Description:
SOT-23 Dual Common Anode Zeners for ESD Protection.This
is intended for use in voltage and ESD sensitive equipment such as computers, printers, business machines, communication systems, medical equipment and other applications.
