The Zener diode is widely used as a shunt regulator or voltage regulator. When connected in parallel with a variable voltage source so the diodes reverse breakdown voltage. The main application of this type of diodes as a voltage regulator. Over a voltage protector as a voltage reference.
- The Zener diode is used as voltage reference: In the power supply, a many circuit Zener diode finds as a constant voltage provider or a voltage reference. The only conditions are that the input voltage should be greater than apply Zener voltage and also the series resistor should have a minimum value such that the maximum current flow through the device.
- Zener diode as a voltage: In DC circuit Zener diode can be used as a voltage regulator or provide a voltage reference. The main use oZ Zener diode lies in the fact that the voltage Zener diode remains constant for a larger change in current. This makes it possible to use a Zener diode as a constant voltage device or a voltage regulator.
- Zener diode as a voltage clamper : In a circuit involving AC input source, different from the normal PN diode clamping circuit, a Zener diode can be used The diode can be used to limit the peak of the output voltage to Zener diode at one side and to about 0V at another side of the sinusoidal waveform.