Semiconductor Diode Circuit Symbols

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There are many different forms of diode and for most types there is a distinct circuit symbol.

Some of the major types of diode include the PN junction, Schottky, varactor, Zener or avalanche reference diode, photo diode, light emitting diode. For all of these there are distinct circuit symbols. Each of these diode circuit symbols incorporates the basic diode format, but is modified to indicate the different function.

Semiconductor Diode Circuit Symbols
Semiconductor Diode Type	Circuit Symbol
Basic PN junction diode Solid shape is more widely used. Normally the cathode and anode annotations are omitted.
Basic PN junction diode sometimes an outline shape is used.
Light emitting diode, LED, symbol
Photodiode
Schottky diode
Tunnel diode
Varactor / varicap diode

Although the dode circuit symbols provide the indication of the cathode and anode, these annotations are normally not included on circuit diagrams as they take valuable diagram space and it is assumed the right connections will be understood.

  Written by Ian Poole .
  Experienced electronics engineer and author.

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