Select power diodes and ordinary diodes based on specific application scenarios

Power diodes and ordinary diodes are two different types of diodes with different structures and characteristics.

1、 Different structures

The structure of power diodes is different from that of ordinary diodes. The structure of a regular diode is relatively simple, consisting of two semiconductor materials with different conductivity properties, namely doping. One region (p region) is rich in positive charges (holes), while the other region (n region) is rich in negative charges (electrons). There is a very thin P-N junction, also known as a "potential barrier", between these two regions, which makes it difficult for electrons to flow from one region to another, forming unidirectional conductivity.

The structure of a power diode is relatively complex, consisting mainly of four regions: N-P-N-P. This structure enables it to withstand higher voltages and currents, while having lower resistance, making it more suitable for high-power electronic applications.

 2、 Different job characteristics

The working characteristics of power diodes and ordinary diodes are also different. Ordinary diodes have only one direction of conductivity, known as unidirectional conductivity. Therefore, when a positive bias is applied to the p region, electrons can flow between the gaps in the N region. When a reverse bias is applied to the p region, the junction increases, and the current flow process is greatly reduced, making the capacitor process obvious. In other words, ordinary diodes only allow current to flow in one direction.

Power diodes have bidirectional conductivity, which means they can conduct electricity at both positive and negative voltages, while also having higher reactive voltage and current. Bidirectional conductivity makes power diodes more flexible and suitable for different electronic application scenarios. In addition, due to the higher current and voltage that power diodes can withstand, they are also more durable than ordinary diodes.

 3、 Different application scenarios

The application scenarios of power diodes and ordinary diodes are also different. Ordinary diodes are commonly used in rectifiers and signal switching circuits in power circuits, or for protecting circuits. Power diodes are widely used in high current, high voltage, and high-power electronic devices, such as large motor drivers, light bulbs, high-power amplifiers, wireless electronics, high-speed railway systems, etc.

Due to its ability to withstand higher currents and voltages, power diodes are more commonly used in industrial and high-end electronic devices.

Conclusion: Through the above analysis, it can be concluded that although power diodes and ordinary diodes are both diodes, their structures, performance, and application scenarios are different. Ordinary diodes have only unidirectional conductivity, while power diodes can conduct electricity at both forward and negative voltages, while withstanding higher currents and voltages. Therefore, when selecting diodes, different types need to be chosen according to specific application scenarios.