Schottky Diode: Working, Applications, and Fast Switching

A Schottky diode, also known as a hot-carrier diode or surface barrier diode, is a specialized electronic component with unique characteristics. In this article, we delve into the working principle, applications, and advantages of Schottky diodes.

Schottky diodes are designed using a metal-semiconductor junction instead of the typical P-N junction found in regular diodes. This metal-semiconductor junction, formed by placing a metal contact directly on a semiconductor material, provides Schottky diodes with distinct properties.

The key feature of Schottky diodes is their low forward voltage drop, typically around 0.2 to 0.3 volts. This low voltage drop arises from the absence of a P-N junction and the reduced energy barrier at the metal-semiconductor interface. As a result, Schottky diodes have faster switching speeds and lower power losses compared to standard diodes.

Schottky diodes find applications in various electronic circuits, particularly in high-speed switching, rectification, and voltage clamping.

Due to their low forward voltage drop and fast switching speeds, Schottky diodes are commonly used in high-frequency and switching applications. They are found in power supplies, RF circuits, and digital logic circuits, enabling rapid signal switching with minimal power losses.

In rectification, Schottky diodes excel at converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). Their low voltage drop leads to reduced power losses and improved efficiency in rectification circuits. As a result, Schottky diodes are employed in power supplies, battery charging circuits, and solar panels to convert AC power to usable DC power.

Schottky diodes also serve as voltage clamps to protect sensitive electronic components from voltage spikes and transients. When a voltage surge occurs, the Schottky diode enters the conducting state, diverting excess current away from the protected components. This safeguarding feature makes Schottky diodes essential in surge protection circuits.