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Diode Characteristics - Average Rectified Forward Current

Hi, I have a question regarding the typical diode characteristics on datasheets from major manufacturers. Most contain characteristics such as average rectified forward current (If), peak repetitive reverse voltage, peak reverse voltage, forward surge current, repetitive surge current, etc...However, I rarely see the conditions under which these are obtained. For example, take the average rectified forward current

- what waveform is this an average of? what is the difference between peak reverse voltage and reverse breakdown voltage, if any? I have lots of other clarifications I am looking for, but I'll limit my inquiry to these for now.

Thanks!

Reply to
firebird
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If the diodes are not high speed devices, there is usually a tiny note hidden at the bottom that specific that these numbers refer to half wave AC line frequency rectification. The surge current usually refers to a one half cycle test. The repetitive surge current usually refers to the peak current into a capacitive filter (one peak per line cycle, but happening many times).

Usually half wave line frequency, resistive load.

The peak reverse voltage rating is the highest safe operating condition, while the breakdown voltage is something higher where the reverse current reaches some danger zone. The second is onset of failure, not a safe operating point.

There are almost infinite variations, so next time, try to bring a link to a specific data sheet for us to argue over.

Reply to
John Popelish

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