Rectifier diodes are the most common type of diode. They are used in
power supplies to convert ac voltage to dc voltage. But rectification is
not all that a diode can do. Now we will discuss diodes used in other
applications. The chapter begins with the zener diode, which is
optimized for its breakdown properties. Zener diodes are very
important because they are the key to voltage regulation. The chapter
also covers optoelectronic diodes, Schottky diodes, varactors, and
other diodes.
