zener diode rating

beenthere

Joined Apr 20, 2004
15,819
Hi,

For an experimental determination, place a resistor in series with the zener. It is most convient to have the resistor attach to the cathode. Using a variable voltage supply, place a voltage across the resistor and diode, positive with reference to the cathode. Monitor with a meter across the diode. Increase the voltage at the supply until the voltage reading between the diode's cathode and ground does not change. That will be the zener voltage. Use a resistor large enough in value so the current is in the single milliamps.
 
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