[Amps] Equalising resistors with HV diodes

[Radio WC6W]

On Tue, 21 Sep 2004 10:29:41 EDT TexasRF at aol.com writes:
> So we have a string of diodes with a few microamps flowing in the
reverse  
> direction. If one of the diodes is rated for 200v and and there is 300v
across  
> it, will it fail?
>  
> I guess I haven't seen the explanation for the failure mechanism in
silicon  
> diodes. If the reverse current really is limited will a failure
inevitably  
> happen?
>  
> 73/k5gw

Good morning,
    Diodes fail when avalanche current, not just simple leakage, produces
localized heating of the silicon structure of sufficient intensity so as
to permanently change its characteristics.  

73,
   Marv  WC6W







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