Diodes connected in parallel are often used for current sharing in high-current applications or for voltage clamping to limit the voltage across a load. Components: Two diodes (D1, D2) Resistor (R) to limit current through the diodes (optional … Continue reading

Diodes connected in parallel are often used for current sharing in high-current applications or for voltage clamping to limit the voltage across a load.

Components:
Two diodes (D1, D2)
Resistor (R) to limit current through the diodes (optional but commonly used)
Assumptions:
Both diodes have identical characteristics (same forward voltage drop).
Step-by-Step Explanation:
1. Understanding the Configuration
When diodes are connected in parallel, the anodes are connected together, and the cathodes are connected together.
This allows current to flow through either of the diodes depending on the forward voltage.
Diodes in parallel can share the current in a way that prevents one diode from carrying all the current, which helps in distributing the load.
2. Forward Voltage of Diodes
Diodes have a threshold voltage (also called forward voltage drop), typically around 0.7V for silicon diodes. Once the voltage across the diode exceeds this threshold, current begins to flow.
In a parallel diode configuration, both diodes will start conducting when the voltage across them reaches the threshold value.
3. Current Distribution in Parallel Diodes
When the applied voltage exceeds the forward voltage drop, both diodes start conducting. However, the current is divided between the diodes.
If the diodes are identical, they will conduct equal currents, meaning the current will be evenly distributed between the diodes.
4. Effect of Voltage Across the Diodes
Assume the applied voltage is higher than the threshold voltage (e.g., 1.4V).
At this point, the voltage across both diodes will be the same, and both will conduct.
If the voltage is 1.4V, each diode will have 0.7V drop across it, and current will flow through both diodes in parallel.
Real-World Considerations
In real-world applications, diodes may not be perfectly identical. Minor differences in their threshold voltages can lead to unequal current sharing.
In such cases, one diode may conduct more current than the other, leading to potential damage to the diode that carries the higher current.
To ensure equal current sharing, current-limiting resistors are often added in series with each diode.
8. Applications of Parallel Diodes
Voltage Clamping: Diodes in parallel are used in circuits that require a fixed voltage across a load. For example, in voltage regulation circuits.
Power Rectifiers: In high-power applications, multiple diodes are connected in parallel to share the load current and prevent overheating.
Protection Circuits: They are used for over-voltage protection in power supplies and other sensitive electronics.
Conclusion:
Diodes connected in parallel allow for current sharing and help in distributing the load. The behavior of the diodes in parallel depends on their threshold voltages and current handling capabilities. In practice, ensuring proper current division between the diodes is important to prevent one from overheating or failing.

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