Power Electronics & Semiconductors

Zener & Silicon Diode Waveform Clipper / Limiter Lab

Protect sensitive ADC inputs from overvoltage spikes and negative excursions using bidirectional Zener clamping.

Speed
Even as the unregulated input swings between 9V and 15V (AC+DC ripple on CH1), the reverse-biased Zener diode clamps the load output near a steady regulated voltage (CH2).
● CH1: CH1
● CH2: CH2

Engineering Theory & Mathematical Model

V_clamp+ = +Vz, V_clamp− = −Vf (≈ −0.7 V)

A reverse-connected Zener diode acts as an asymmetric bidirectional voltage limiter: positive excursions above +Vz are clamped at the Zener breakdown voltage, while negative excursions below −0.7V forward-bias the PN junction!

Interactive Lab Procedure

  1. Select VIN and set DC Offset to 0V and Amplitude to 10V AC.
  2. Watch CH2 clip positive peaks flat near +5.1V AND clip negative peaks flat near −0.7V simultaneously!
  3. Adjust Zener breakdown voltage Vz in the Inspector from 3.3V to 9.1V.

Technical FAQ

What is the core governing formula for Zener & Silicon Diode Waveform Clipper / Limiter Lab?

V_clamp+ = +Vz, V_clamp− = −Vf (≈ −0.7 V) — A reverse-connected Zener diode acts as an asymmetric bidirectional voltage limiter: positive excursions above +Vz are clamped at the Zener breakdown voltage, while negative excursions below −0.7V forward-bias the PN junction!

Can I modify component values and rewire this circuit live?

Yes! The schematic above runs a live MNA SPICE engine. Click any part to adjust parameters, add or delete wires and components, and click Share URL to save your custom topology.

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