[Amps] HV Supplies and Diodes

[Jim Tonne]

When a string of series-connected diodes is reverse-biased
(during part of the cycle), the voltage drop across one is
proportional to its leakage resistance.  If the junction of the
diode type has significant capacitance, then that enters into
the picture too.

If you use, in parallel with each diode, a resistor whose value
is a fraction of the leakage resistance, then those resistors will
swamp the leakage and so tend to equalize the voltage drop
across each diode in a string.

If you use, in parallel with each diode, a capacitor whose
value is several times that of the junction, then those capacitors
will swamp the junctions and again tend to equalize the voltage
drop across each diode in a string.

During the forward-conduction part of the cycle of course
we have no problems with any of the above.  

I am not familiar with the rules on avalanche diodes.

- Jim WB6BLD