Part | RoHS | Manufacturer | Trigger Device Type | Package Style (Meter) | Surface Mount | Terminal Position | Configuration | Case Connection | Package Body Material | Nominal Holding Current | Minimum Breakdown Voltage | Terminal Form | Package Shape | No. of Elements | Repetitive Peak Reverse Voltage | No. of Terminals | Sub-Category | Maximum Operating Temperature | Minimum Operating Temperature | Terminal Finish | JESD-30 Code | Qualification | Maximum Holding Current | Maximum Non Repetitive Peak Forward Current | JESD-609 Code | Maximum Time At Peak Reflow Temperature (s) | Maximum Breakdown Voltage | Peak Reflow Temperature (C) |
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Breakover diodes, also known as break-down diodes or reference diodes, are two-terminal semiconductor devices that are designed to conduct current when a specific voltage is exceeded.
Breakover diodes have a highly doped p-n junction that allows current to flow in the reverse direction once the voltage across the diode reaches a certain threshold value. Once this voltage is exceeded, the breakover diode begins to conduct in the reverse direction, providing a low-resistance path for current flow.
Breakover diodes are commonly used in electronic circuits to protect sensitive components from voltage spikes and transients. They are often used in circuits that operate in harsh environments or that are subject to voltage surges, such as in power supplies and motor control circuits.
Breakover diodes can be used in conjunction with other components, such as capacitors and resistors, to form voltage clamping circuits that protect sensitive components from overvoltage conditions. In these circuits, the breakover diode conducts the excess voltage away from the sensitive component and dissipates it as heat.