Hi guys:
>
>I'm an ME, so I have a basic knowledge of semiconductors, but not as
>in-depth as you EE's.
>
>When a diode is connected in reverse (the direction where current
>doesn't flow), does it behave like an insulator or like a
>semiconductor? In other words, does it have an extremely high
>resistivity, like a dielectric, or does it just have a high
>resistivity and pass some very small amount of current, like a
>semiconductor?
>
>I know about avalanche breakdown; that's not what I'm talking about.
>I'm talking about at voltages below breakdown.
>
>Thanks for any replies.
>
>Don
Typically a nearly constant current, with a much less than resistive slope, as JP states. Schottkies are leakier and more "resistive" than silicon PN junctions. The reverse leakage current typically doubles with every 10 degree C temp increase.
It can vary wildly between "identical" devices, especially power diodes.
Some glass diodes are photosensitive, too!
John