Tunnel Diode

A friend of mine asked a question if a Tunnel Diode is same as a Diode. And if no, what is the difference between a diode and a Tunnel diode with likely applications in basic electronics these days.

What is a Tunnel Diode?

In simple term, a tunnel diode is a semiconductor that has a very thin p-n junction as compare to that of a normal diode, such that electrons can yet travel across the insulating material posing as a wall through a

tunnel effect

. Below is a diagram showing a Tunnel Diode:

If you could recall, in developed world mostly, there is a route known as “Tunnel” where motor vehicles and other form of transportation plight through. You will agree with me that such routes are normally situated in areas where there seems to be “No Way” out but there came a way out at the end.

This also is a perspective of mine for which Tunneling is assign to the diode for its uniqueness amongst other forms of semiconductors.

Back to the main issue of the day, a tunnel diode is a semiconductor with a unique and remarkable ability as I earlier stated sighting instance of its ability of maneuverability across a wall of insulation against conventional assumption and operation of a normal diode.

Tunnel Diode was developed by a physicist in Japan known as Esaki Leo around 1985. Its so unique even in respect to the minute power consumption of about 1% as compared to a normal Transistor.

Not only that, experimentally, it has been proven that tunnel diode in addition with a diode could form part of a Frequency Modulation Radio. This is important as it occupies less space and has light weight. Also, it is free from interruption of radiation effects, temperature changes and electrical noises associated with high frequency devices. This is to say that it can operate at frequencies far beyond frequencies a normal transistor can even operate!

Tunnel Diode is also use in satellites systems where high frequencies exist. Also, they are use in portable radio units and ultra high frequency radio communication systems and television systems.

I can’t pulse here without showing you the picture of the man behind this unique discovery or breakthrough. This is areas where I get insight, motivation and hope of not giving up on things in life. Never ever you say it’s over when you yet have air to breath. You can be the next physicist to make something new!

Tweet