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How to Check if a Diode Is Bad Diodes are semiconductor devices that conduct current in one direction only, and are commonly made from silicon or germanium. Diodes have two terminals -- an anode and a cathode -- with the cathode being marked by a line painted on the body of the diode. Current is allowed to flow from the anode to the cathode, but is blocked in the other direction. This property is used most commonly in rectifier circuits, which change alternating current to direct current. Diodes are also used to protect components in a circuit if the power is connected the wrong way around, blocking the flow of current to stop damage being caused. Although diodes rarely fail, it can happen if they are exposed to voltage or current above their rated limits. Things You'll Need Digital multimeter Soldering iron Desoldering braid Pliers Instructions Unsolder one leg of the diode if it is part of a circuit, otherwise the other components in the circuit may affect the resul...

How to Identify Diode Markings Diodes are electronic components that permit the flow of electric current in one direction only, shutting current off when it reverses. These handy devices have dozens of important uses in circuits, including as power supplies and radio signal detectors. Because diodes have polarity, their packaging carries distinct markings that help you connect them correctly in a circuit. Signal Diodes The smallest discrete diodes are designed to handle about 100 milliamps of current. These devices are typically packaged in tiny glass cylinders with a connecting lead at each end. A stripe on the cylinder marks the diode’s cathode, making the opposite side the anode. With some diodes, you may need a magnifying glass to see the stripe clearly. Mid-Power Diodes Diodes used as rectifiers in small power supplies are usually rated between 1 and 5 amps of current, maximum. These components usually have a cylindrical body made of dark epoxy or ceramic with a white or...

How to Choose the Right Diode Diodes are electronic one-way valves, letting current flow in one direction but not the reverse. If you're designing a circuit that uses them, you'll need to know they have limits. They can handle a rated maximum current, and if you exceed this limit you'll destroy the part. They also have a reverse voltage limit, past which they will start conducting, possibly with damaging results. And diodes come in several different physical case styles, with leads or in a surface-mount (SMD) case. Things You'll Need Pencil and paper Calculator Circuit schematic Semiconductor catalog Instructions Evaluate the schematic at the point where the diode will be located. Determine the maximum current that will be flowing through that point and write the figure down. Determine the maximum voltage that the diode will have to sustain. Voltages are differences in potential between two points, so if one side of the diode is at 25 volts ...