AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY–BANGLADESH (AIUB)

FACULTY OF SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Summer 2023-24

ELECTRONIC DEVICES LAB: 04

Section: L (GROUP-7)

LAB REPORT ON:

Study of Study of Zener Diode
Supervised By
BISMOY JAHAN

Submitted By: ALIF HASAN KHAN

Name ID
1. ALIF HASAN KHAN 23-50186-1
2. MD. YEAHYEA JAM 23-50187-1
3. MOHSIN IBNA HOSSAIN 23-50194-1
4. SHADMAN SHAKIB 23-50200-1
5. MD. SHAJEDUL ISLAM 22-46842-1

Date of Submission: Jun 30, 2024

 (1) Objectives:
The objectives of this experiment are to
1. Study the Zener diode’s I-V characteristics.
2. Study Zener diode-based voltage regulator circuits at different conditions.

(2) Theory and Methodology:

A Zener diode is a diode that allows current to flow in the forward direction in the same manner as an ideal
diode but also permits it to flow in the reverse direction when the voltage is above a certain value known as
the breakdown voltage, Zener knee voltage, Zener voltage, avalanche point, or peak inverse voltage. If the
voltage is increased beyond this certain value, there is a sudden rapid rise in current causing the destruction
of the device. The basic function of the Zener diode is to maintain a specific voltage across its terminals
within given limits of line or load voltage. Usually, it is used to provide a stable reference voltage for power
supplies and other equipment. Figure 1 shows a Zener diode-based circuit that maintains a 10 V reference
voltage. When a reverse voltage equal to the Zener voltage is applied, the reverse current is limited only by
the small value of Zener resistance and the circuit series resistance, R.

Figure 1: Zener diode circuit that maintains a 10 V across the load.

A Zener diode is much like a normal diode, the exception is that it is placed in the circuit in reverse bias
mode and operates in reverse breakdown. The typical characteristic curve in Fig. 2 illustrates the operating
range (ash color region) for a Zener diode. Note that its forward characteristics are just like a normal diode
as in Fig. 2.

Figure 2: The normal operating region of a Zener diode is shaded.

The doping process determines the Zener diode’s breakdown characteristics. One of the most important
features of the characteristic curve in the reverse direction is called the Zener voltage (Vz), which is the
voltage at which avalanche or Zener breakdown occurs. This region is shown in Fig. 3.
There are two types of Zener diodes based on the breakdown voltage ranges, such as
1. Low voltage Zener diodes
2. High voltage Zener diodes.
Low voltage Zener diodes have operating Zener breakdown less than 5 V. Those designed to operate more
than 5 V, operate mostly in avalanche breakdown range, are known as high voltage Zener diodes. Zener
diodes are available with breakdown voltage ranges from 1.8 V to 200 V.
At a particular Zener voltage, there is a minimum and maximum current called the Zener knee or minimum
(IZK) and maximum (IZM) currents. The minimum Zener current (IZK) is necessary to cause the Zener diode to
avalanche, that is, to work in the Zener mode. The maximum Zener current (IZM) is necessary to limit the
power dissipation in the Zener diode in the Zener mode. This is illustrated in Fig. 3.
The resistance of the Zener diode in the breakdown region is called the dynamic resistance that can be
obtained by finding the slope of the line in the breakdown region (i.e., in the third quadrant). For most
applications, it is desirable that dynamic resistance (Rz) should have as low a value as possible. The small
value of Rz is reflected in the steep slope of the Zener characteristics in the reverse direction and this is the
reason why the Zener diode finds so many applications as a voltage reference regulator circuit, in voltage
surge protection, and in waveform shaping circuits.

Figure 3: The minimum and maximum ranges of operating current for a Zener to maintain its voltage effectively.

A Zener diode can be operated in both forward and reverse-biased modes. In forward-biased mode, the
anode of the Zener is connected to the positive terminal of the battery, and the cathode of the Zener is
connected to the negative terminal of the battery. Then it will act as a normal diode. In reverse-biased mode,
the anode of the Zener is connected to the negative terminal of the battery, and the cathode of the Zener is
connected to the positive terminal of the battery as shown in Fig. 4 (a). In the latter mode, the Zener diode
can act as a voltage regulator. A voltage regulator is designed to keep the output voltage of a circuit at a
constant value, independent of the input voltage and independent of the load current. A Zener diode
connected in parallel to the load is the simplest form of such a voltage regulator circuit shown in Fig. 4 (b).
If the voltage across the load tries to rise, then the Zener diode takes more current. The increase in current
through the resistor causes an increase in voltage drop across the resistor and causes the voltage across the
load to remain at its correct value. Similarly, if the voltage across the load tries to fall, then the Zener diode
takes less current. The current through the resistor and the voltage across the resistor both fall. The voltage
across the load remains at its correct value.
 (a) (b)
Figure 4: Zener diode-based circuit diagram: (a) Characteristics study; (b) Voltage regulator study.

Circuit Diagram;

Figure 5: Circuit diagram for the determination of Zener diode’s (a) forward and (b) reverse characteristics

Figure 6: Circuit diagram for the determination of Zener diode’s voltage regulation characteristics
(3) Apparatus:
 Zener Diode
 Resistor (0.462 kΩ)
 Multimeter
 Breadboard and Connecting Wire
 DC Power Supply

(4) Experimental & Simulation Circuits and Results:

Simulation Circuits:

Figure 7.1: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s in Multisim for 0.0V

 Figure 7.2: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s in Multisim for 0.4V

Figure 7.3: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s in Multisim for 12V

Figure 8.1: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s voltage regulation in Multisim for 1V
 Figure 8.2: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s voltage regulation in Multisim for 7V

Figure 8.3: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s voltage regulation in Multisim for 10V

Figure 9.1: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s voltage regulation in Multisim for 0 kΩ
Figure 9.2: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s voltage regulation in Multisim for 1 kΩ

Figure 9.3: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s voltage regulation in Multisim for 7 kΩ

Figure 9.4: Simulated circuit of Zener diode’s voltage regulation in Multisim for 12 kΩ
 Experimental Results:

Table 1 (b) Data for the IZ – VZ Curve [Put minus sign (–) before VZ and IZ]

Source Voltage, Es (V) Diode Voltage, VZ (V) Resistor Voltage, VR (V) Diode Current, IZ (mA)
0 0 0 0

0.1 -0.154 0 0

0.2 -0.276 0 0

0.3 -0.400 0 0

0.4 -0.467 0 0

0.5 -0.531 0 0

0.6 -0.650 0 0

0.7 -0.749 0 0

0.8 -0.848 0 0

0.9 -0.940 0 0

1.0 -1.098 0 0

2.0 -2.037 0 0

3.0 -3.019 0 0

4.0 -4.060 0 0

5.0 -5.100 0 0

6.0 -5.63 0.431 -0.930

7.0 -5.63 1.464 -3.170

8.0 -5.64 2.422 -5.240

9.0 -5.65 3.402 -7.360

10.0 -5.67 4.410 -9.540

12.0 -5.68 6.340 -13.72

15.0 -5.72 9.300 -20.12

Vz vs Iz
0
-7 -6 -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0

-5
Iz (mA)

-10

-15

-20

-25

Vz (v)
Figure 10: Diode I z V Z characteristics of the experimental circuit.
 Table 2 Data for the voltage regulation curve against the source voltage variation
Source Voltage, Line Voltage, Load Voltage, Line Current, Zener Current, Load Current,
Es (V) VR (V) VL (V) I (mA) IZ (mA) IL (mA)
0.0 0 0 0 0 0

1.0 0.045 0.96 0.098 0.001 0.097

2.0 0.089 1.926 0.193 0.001 0.192

3.0 0.134 2.890 0.290 0.001 0.289

4.0 0.177 3.840 0.385 0.001 0.384

5.0 0.222 4.810 0.481 0.001 0.480

6.0 0.424 5.620 0.917 0.355 0.562

7.0 1.408 5.640 3.047 2.483 0.564

8.0 2.407 5.650 5.209 4.644 0.565

9.0 3.381 5.660 7.318 6.752 0.566

10.0 4.350 5.670 9.415 8.848 0.567

12.0 6.380 5.690 13.809 13.244 0.569

15.0 9.320 5.720 20.173 19.601 0.572

Table 3 Data for the voltage regulation curve against the load resistance variation
Load Resistance, Line Voltage, Load Voltage, Line Current, Zener Current, Load Current,
RL (kΩ) VR (V) VL (V) I (mA) IZ (mA) IL (mA)
0.0 15 0.00 32.46 32.46 0

1.0 9.34 5.70 20.21 14.52 5.7

2.0 9.33 5.71 20.19 17.34 2.85

3.0 9.32 5.72 20.17 18.27 1.90

4.0 9.31 5.73 20.15 18.71 1.43

5.0 9.31 5.73 20.15 18.85 1.14

6.0 9.31 5.73 20.15 19.23 0.95

7.0
8.0
9.0
10.0 9.31 5.73 20.15 20.093 0.057

12.0
14.0
16.0 9.31 5.73 20.15 20.092 0.058

18.0
20.0

 Simulation Results:
 Table 1 (b) Data for the IZ – VZ Curve [Put minus sign (–) before VZ and IZ]

Source Voltage, Es (V) Diode Voltage, VZ (V) Resistor Voltage, VR (V) Diode Current, IZ (mA)
0 0 0 0

0.1 -0.100 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.2 -0.200 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.3 -0.300 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.4 -0.400 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.5 -0.500 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.6 -0.600 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.7 -0.700 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.8 -0.800 ≈ 0.00 0.00

0.9 -0.900 ≈ 0.00 0.00

1.0 -1.00 ≈ 0.00 0.00

2.0 -2.00 ≈ 0.00 0.00

3.0 -3.00 ≈ 0.00 0.00

4.0 -4.00 ≈ 0.00 0.00

5.0 -5.00 ≈ 0.00 0.00

6.0 -5.07 0.92 -2.00

7.0 -5.09 1.90 -4.12

8.0 -5.10 2.89 -6.26

9.0 -5.11 3.88 -8.40

10.0 -5.12 4.87 -10.55

12.0 -5.13 6.86 -14.86

15.0 -5.17 9.85 -21.32

Vz vs Iz
0
-6 -5 -4 -3 -2 -1 0
-5
Iz (mA)

-10

-15

-20

-25

Vz (v)
Figure 10: Diode I z V Z characteristics of the Simulation circuit.

Table 2 Data for the voltage regulation curve against the source voltage variation
Source Voltage, Line Voltage, Load Voltage, Line Current, Zener Current, Load Current,
Es (V) VR (V) VL (V) I (mA) IZ (mA) IL (mA)
0.0 0 0 0 0 0

1.0 0.044 0.955 0.095 0.000 0.095

2.0 0.088 1.912 0.191 0.000 0.191

3.0 0.132 2.868 0.286 0.000 0.286

4.0 0.176 3.823 0.385 0.000 0.385

5.0 0.220 4.780 0.477 0.000 0.477

6.0 0.932 5.067 0.900 0.345 0.555

7.0 1.309 5.091 4.132 3.623 0.509

8.0 2.896 5.104 6.267 5.758 0.510

9.0 3.887 5.113 8.411 7.901 0.511

10.0 4.579 5.121 10.560 10.049 0.512

12.0 6.866 5.132 14.563 14.352 0.513

15.0 9.850 5.140 21.330 20.810 0.514

Table 3 Data for the voltage regulation curve against the load resistance variation
Load Resistance, Line Voltage, Load Voltage, Line Current, Zener Current, Load Current,
RL (kΩ) VR (V) VL (V) I (mA) IZ (mA) IL (mA)
0.0 15 0.00 32.46 32.46 0.00

1.0 9.86 5.13 21.34 16.21 5.13

2.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 18.76 2.57

3.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 19.62 1.71

4.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.040 1.280

5.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.304 1.029

6.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.475 0.857

7.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.597 0.734

8.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.688 0.643

9.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.759 0.571

10.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.816 0.514

12.0 9.85 5.14 21.33 20.902 0.428

14.0 9.85 5.14 21.329 20.963 0.367

16.0 9.85 5.14 21.329 21.009 0.321

18.0 9.85 5.14 21.329 21.044 0.285

20.0 9.85 5.14 21.329 21.073 0.257

(5) Discussion:
In this experiment, we studied the I-V characteristics of the Zener diode and its performance in a voltage
regulator circuit. Our primary objective was to observe the Zener diode's behavior under various
conditions and understand how it maintains a constant voltage across its terminals despite variations in
load and line voltage.

Analysis of Table 3: Voltage Regulation Against Load Resistance Variation

During the experiment, we encountered a situation where the measured values were almost identical,
raising concerns about the accuracy of our measurements. However, upon consulting with our instructor,
we learned that the measured data was accurate. The Zener diode was effectively regulating the load
side branch, maintaining a constant voltage of approximately 5.7V across the load. This constant voltage
resulted in a consistent difference between the source voltage and the load voltage, calculated as 15V -
5.7V = 9.3V.

The Zener diode's ability to regulate voltage within a range of variable load resistances (RLmin to
RLmax) explains the consistency in our measurements. This regulation is critical for ensuring stable
operation in circuits where the load resistance can vary. The data from Table 3 supports this explanation,
showing a stable load voltage (VL) of 5.7V across various load resistances, demonstrating the Zener
diode's effective voltage regulation.

(6) Answer all the Report Questions:

1. Show the differences between simulated and measured values. Comment

on the results and interpret the experimental and simulation data.

Simulated Values:

 The simulation data for the I-V characteristics of the Zener diode is provided in the tables. For
example, at a source voltage of 10V, the simulated Zener voltage (VZ) is approximately -5.121V
with a diode current (IZ) of -10.049 mA .

Measured Values:

 The measured values show, for instance, at a source voltage of 10V, the Measured Zener voltage
(VZ) is approximately -5.670V with a diode current (IZ) of -8.848 mA.

Comparison:

 Comparing the simulation and measured values, we observe slight differences. The simulated
Zener voltage is consistently slightly higher in magnitude than the measured values, indicating
minor discrepancies likely due to idealizations in the simulation that do not account for all real-
world imperfections.

Comment:

 The differences between simulated and measured values can be attributed to factors such as
component tolerances, measurement inaccuracies, and the ideal nature of simulations which do
 not account for all real-world phenomena. Despite these differences, both sets of data show the
Zener diode's expected behavior of maintaining a constant voltage near the breakdown voltage
under varying conditions.

2. Determine the breakdown voltage (VZ) and Zener resistance (RZ) from
the plot.

Breakdown Voltage (VZ):

 From the I-V characteristics plot (Table data), the breakdown voltage (VZ) is observed around
5.7V where the Zener diode starts to conduct significantly in the reverse direction.

Zener Resistance (RZ):

 The Zener resistance (RZ) can be determined from the slope of the I-V curve in the breakdown
region. Using the data, if we take two points in the breakdown region, for instance:
o At IZ = 0.93 mA, VZ = 5.63V
o At IZ = 20.12 mA, VZ = 5.72V

The Zener resistance can be calculated as:

∆V Z (5.72−5.63)
R z= = =5.51 mΩ
∆ I Z ( 20.12−0.93 ) mA

This indicates that the Zener diode exhibits a very low dynamic resistance in the breakdown
region, effectively acting as a constant voltage source.

3. What are the effects of varying the source voltage, line, and load
resistances on the line voltage, load voltage, line current, Zener current,
and load current? From the data of Tables 2-3, plot the following curves
and then explain the voltage regulation impacts:

a) VL vs. Es [Table 2]

VL vs ES
6

4
VL (v)

0
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16
ES (V)

Fig 11: VL vs. Es: As Es increases, VL stabilizes near 5.7V indicating good voltage
regulation despite changes in source voltage.

b) VL vs. IZ [Tables 2-3]

VL vs Iz
6

4
VL (v)

0
0 5 10 15 20 25
Iz (mA)

Fig 12: VL vs Iz: As IZ increases, VL remains constant showing that the Zener diode
maintains a steady voltage across varying currents.

c) VL vs. RL [Table 3]
 VL vs RL
6

VL (v)
4

0
0 5 10 15 20 25
RL (kΩ))

Fig 13: As RL changes, VL stays around 5.7V, demonstrating the diode’s

effectiveness in voltage regulation against load variations.

Impact Analysis:

 Source Voltage Variation (Es): From Table 2, as Es increases, VL remains fairly stable around
5.7V, demonstrating effective voltage regulation by the Zener diode.

 Load Resistance Variation (RL): From Table 3, as RL varies, VL remains around 5.7V, further
illustrating the Zener diode’s ability to maintain a constant voltage across varying loads.

4. Give your own suggestions regarding this experiment.

 Component Selection: Using precision resistors and a high-quality Zener diode can improve
measurement accuracy and consistency.

 Measurement Techniques: Employing more precise measuring instruments and techniques can
reduce discrepancies between simulated and measured values.

 Environmental Control: Conducting the experiment in a controlled environment can

minimize the impact of external factors on the measurements.

5. Discuss the overall aspects of the experiment. Did your results match the
expected ones? If not, explain.
  The results of the experiment generally matched our expectations, demonstrating the Zener
diode's capability to regulate voltage effectively. The minor discrepancies between simulated and
measured values were within acceptable limits and did not significantly impact the overall
conclusions. The experiment successfully illustrated the Zener diode's characteristics and its
application in voltage regulation, providing valuable insights into its practical use in electronic
circuits.

 In conclusion, the experiment was successful in demonstrating the Zener diode's voltage
regulation properties, and the measured data accurately reflected the expected behavior of the
diode under varying conditions. The insights gained from this experiment will be beneficial for
future applications and studies involving Zener diodes

(7) References:
[1] 1] Robert L. Boylestad, Louis Nashelsky, Electronic Devices and Circuit Theory, 9
[2] th Edition, 2007-2008
[3] [2] Adel S. Sedra, Kenneth C. Smith, Microelectronic Circuits, Saunders College
Publishing, 3rd ed., ISBN: 0-03-
[4] 051648-X, 1991.
[5] [3] American International University–Bangladesh (AIUB) Electronic Devices Lab
Manual.
[6] [4] David J. Comer, Donald T. Comer, Fundamentals of Electronic Circuit Design,
John Wiley & Sons Canada, Ltd.,
[7] ISBN: 0471410160, 2002.
[8] [5] Resistor values: https://www.eleccircuit.com/how-to-basic-use-resistor/, accessed
on 20 September 2023.