Zener Diode 3.6V (Pack of 5)

Wiring Connections:

• Anode (A): Connect the anode to the ground or negative terminal of the circuit.
• Cathode (K): Connect the cathode to the point where regulated voltage is required. The cathode is  marked with a stripe on the diode.

In a circuit:

• In Voltage Regulation: The Zener diode is often placed in reverse bias (cathode to the positive voltage) where it regulates voltage to 3.6V across its terminals.

Power:

• Maximum Power Dissipation:  500mW or 1W depending on the specific model. Be cautious not to exceed this power rating, or the diode may overheat.
• Voltage Handling: This Zener diode is specifically designed to clamp voltage at 3.6V, which makes it perfect for low-voltage regulation applications.

Input and Output:

• Input Voltage: Can accept a higher input voltage, which the diode will regulate down to 3.6V when in reverse bias.
• Output Voltage: The output voltage will be clamped at 3.6V, making this ideal for use in low-voltage applications such as reference voltage circuits.

Physical Characteristics:

• Package: DO-35 or DO-41
  • DO-35: Length of about 4.4mm and a diameter of 1.6mm
  • DO-41: Length of about 5.2mm and a diameter of 2.3mm
• Material: Silicon-based diode.
• Polarity Marking: The cathode side is marked with a band for easy identification.

Technical Specifications:

• Nominal Voltage: 3.6V (reverse breakdown voltage)
• Maximum Power Dissipation: 500mW or 1W (depending on the model)
• Forward Voltage Drop: Approximately 0.7V (in forward-biased mode)
• Zener Impedance (Zz): Depends on the current but  in the range of a few ohms.
• Operating Temperature Range:  -65°C to +150°C
• Maximum Reverse Current (Ir):  in the microampere range.

Additional Features:

• ESD Protection: Zener diodes are often used for Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) protection, where they protect sensitive components from voltage spikes.
• Cost-Effective: The pack of 5 Zener diodes is an affordable solution for voltage regulation and circuit protection.

How to Use:

1. Voltage Regulation:
   • To use the 3.6V Zener diode for voltage regulation, connect the anode to ground and the cathode to the point where you want the 3.6V regulated output.
   • For example, if you have a 12V power supply and you want a stable 3.6V output, place the Zener diode in reverse bias. It will regulate the output to a steady 3.6V.
2. Circuit Protection:
   • In many circuits, Zener diodes are used as voltage clamping devices to protect other components from voltage spikes. Place the diode in reverse bias across the sensitive part of the circuit, and it will protect the component by clamping the voltage at 3.6V.
3. Reference Voltage:
   • Zener diodes are commonly used in circuits requiring a precise reference voltage. In such cases, the Zener diode is placed in reverse bias, and the 3.6V voltage across the diode is used as a stable reference voltage.
4. Design Tips:
   • Current Limiting Resistor: Always use a current-limiting resistor in series with the Zener diode to prevent it from being damaged by excessive current, where III is the current through the diode.

Applications:

• Power Supply Circuits: Zener diodes are widely used in power supplies for low-voltage regulation.
• Voltage References: They are used in many circuits that need a constant reference voltage.
• Surge Protection: Can be used to protect sensitive components from voltage spikes and surges.
• Shunt Regulators: These diodes are also used in shunt regulators for maintaining a constant voltage.

With this pack of 5 Zener diodes rated at 3.6V, you’ll have plenty of diodes for your various circuit-building needs, whether you’re designing voltage regulators, protecting components, or creating reference voltage sources.