Question

A Zener diode when used as a voltage regulator, is connected
(a) in forward bias.
(b) in reverse bias.
(c) in parallel to the load.
(d) in series to the load.

• A. (b) and (c) are correct
• B. (a) and (b) are correct
• C. (a) only is correct
• D. (d) only is correct

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

When Zener diode is biased in the forward direction it behaves like a normal signal diode passing the current increasing linearly with voltage, but as soon as a reverse voltage applied across the Zener diode attains the breakdown voltage of the device, a large current starts to flow through the diode. Thus, for a constant voltage large current will flow through it. Hence, it always connected in parallel to the load.