EXPERIMENT 2

DIODES: There are many types of diodes, rectifier, zener, and L.E.D diodes. They have similar and different characteristics. One similar characteristic is that they only flow in one direction. Some different characteristics are an LED emits light, rectifing diodes only work in forward bias and is open circuit if put in reverse bias but a zener can work in both forward and reverse bias but wont short out. This is because a zener in reverse bias, when it reaches its limit stops so much voltage then lets the excess flow through in reverse bias. To test a diode you simply put your multimeter in diode test and place a lead either side of the diode. You will only get a read in one direction the other will say OL. When you get this reading you will be able to figure out which leg is the anode and which is the cathode. In a circuit diodes can be used to rectify current and or protect a certain part of the curcuit. My RESULTS: current through diode- (calculated)volts/resistance= 4.44/1000= 4mA. (measured) .4mA. Voltage drop across diode- (calculated) .7volts. the pressured needed to push through the diode. (measured) .56volts. In this experiment I learnt that the current in a circuit will differ depending on voltage supply and the voltage used on other consumers in the circuit, if the resistor is the same.