Created By : Vaibhavi Kumari

Reviewed By : Phani Ponnapalli

Last Updated : May 14, 2023


Use the Shockley Diode Calculator to quickly determine the voltage drop or current flow in a genuine diode by entering thermal voltage, saturation current, and other parameters. Simply insert the emission coefficient, current, saturation current, and thermal voltage into the calculator's fields to get a quick result.

Choose a Calculation
Voltage drop(Vd):
Thermal voltage(Vt):
Saturation Current(Is):
Emission coefficient(n):

Shockley Diode Equation

A diode is an electrical component that enables just one direction of the current passage. To allow current to flow in one direction, a p-n junction is needed. The I-V relationship is discovered by using the Shockley diode (Current and Voltage). For ideal and real (imperfect) diodes, the Shockley diode equation can be utilized.

The diode law is another name for it. Two terminals, three junctions, and a four-layer semiconductor device make up a Shockley diode, also known as a PNPN diode. It's like a thyristor with a gate that can be detached. The diode equation of Shockley is as follows I = Is x ( e^(Vd/n x Vt) - 1)

  • Where, I = current flowing through the diode
  • Is = the intrinsic current in all diodes, which is temperature-dependent, is called saturation current.
  • n = emission coefficient.
  • Vt = when a diode is detached from the circuit, its internal voltage is called thermal voltage.
  • Vd = the voltage differential between the diode's connections to the circuit is called voltage drop.

How to Calculate Current Flow through a Diode?

Here is a simple step-by-step procedure for calculating the amount of current passing through a genuine diode, as well as the voltage drop. Follow these instructions then you'll have no difficulty answering the questions.

  • Step 1: Find a genuine diode's saturation current, thermal voltage, emission coefficient, and voltage drop.
  • Step 2: Substitute the product of the emission coefficient and the thermal voltage for the voltage drop.
  • Step 3: Reduce the acquired value by 1 by finding the exponential of the obtained value.
  • Step 4: To check the current flow, multiply the result by reverse saturation current.

How to Use the Shockley Diode Calculator?

The following is the procedure how to use the Shockley Diode calculator

  • Step 1: Input the unknown value's voltage drop, thermal voltage, saturation current, emission coefficient and x in the appropriate input fields.
  • Step 2: To acquire the result, click the "Calculate the Unknown" button.
  • Step 3: Finally, the output field will show the voltage in a real diode.

Shockley Diode Examples

Question 1: The saturation current of an ideal diode is 20 A, the thermal voltage is 150 V, and the voltage drop is 180 V. Using the Shockley diode equation, what is the current going through the diode?

Solution:

Given: Is = 20 A

Vt = 150 V

n = 1

Vd = 180 V

Shockley diode equation I = Is x ( e^(Vd/n x Vt) - 1)

Substitute the given values

I = 20 x (e180/1 x 150 - 1)

= 20 x (e^1.2 - 1)

= 20 x (3.320 - 1)

= 20 x 2.320

= 46.40

Hence, the current flowing through the ideal diode is 46.40 A.

For more concepts check out physicscalculatorpro.com to get quick answers by using this free tool.

FAQs on Shockley Diode

1. What is the purpose of a Shockley diode?

Shockley diodes are mostly used in switching circuits. The relaxation oscillator and trigger switch are the two most common applications of the Shockley diode.


2. Is there a difference between a Shockley and a Schottky diode?

Shockley diode is a semiconductor-coupled diode with two PN junctions, whereas Schottky diode is a metal-semiconductor junction diode. Shockley is a power source, a switching device, and an inorganic solar cell all in one. The Schottky diode is a signalling and rectification device.


3. How do you put a Shockley diode to the test?

Connect the anode of the Schottky diode to the red positive test wire, and the cathode of the diode to the black common test lead. A "beep" or "buzz" from the multimeter should be heard. The multimeter will make a tone if the Schottky diode responds as expected.


4. What does a Shockley diode do?

A Shockley diode is a diode that is mostly used for switching purposes. The Shockley diode, unlike other types of semiconductor diodes, features more than one PN junction. It's made up of two of each type of semiconductor arranged in an alternating pattern.


5. In terms of operation, how does a Shockley diode vary from a Schottky diode?

Shockley is a power source, a switching device, and an inorganic solar cell all in one. The Schottky diode is a signalling and rectification device. Because the Schottky diode's barrier is too small, it can run at a higher frequency or with a faster response while using less power.