IV curve of zener diode

let said i have got a zener diode in series with 2 resistors.
What can i observe from the IV curve with resistors and the IV curve without resistors?
Please advise. Thanks.

shermaine said:

let said i have got a zener diode in series with 2 resistors.
What can i observe from the IV curve with resistors and the IV curve without resistors?
Please advise. Thanks.

Click to expand...

hi shermaine,

You could observe, while applying various voltages across the resistor/zener pair:

The reverse voltage drop across the zener and the effect of connecting resistive loads across the zener.

The current thru the zener
The body temperature of the zener

then plot the results on a graph.

Without a series resistor you will most likely 'observe smoke', dont do it.

EDIT: It would be a good idea to get the datasheet for the zeners you are testing.

A low voltage zener diode is a lousy voltage regulator. Its voltage changes a lot when its current changes and its voltage drops as it gets warm.

A high voltage zener diode is also a lousy voltage regulator. Its voltage changes as its current changes and its voltage increases as it gets warm.

A 5.6V to 6.2V zener diode is good. Its VI curve is allmost a vertical line which is good voltage regulation and temperature changes have a very small effect.

You could add a current regulator but by the time that you may as well have used a real voltage regulator like the LM317.