1N400x general-purpose diodes


The 1N400x series is a family of popular one-ampere general-purpose silicon rectifier diodes commonly used in AC adapters for common household appliances. Its blocking voltage varies from 50 volts to 1000 volts. This JEDEC device number series is available in the DO-41 axial package, and similar diodes are available in SMA and MELF surface mount packages.
The 1N540x series is a similarly popular family of diodes for higher-current 3 A applications. These diodes are typically available in the larger DO-201AD axial package to dissipate heat better.

History

The 1N400x series was originally introduced by Motorola's Semiconductor Products Division and registered at JEDEC in 1963, as silicon power rectifiers primarily for military and industrial applications. It appeared in the Motorola Semiconductor Data Manual in 1965, as replacements for 1N2609 through 1N2617. The 1N540x series were announced in Electrical Design News in 1968, along with the now lesser known 1.5 A 1N5391 series.

Overview

These devices are widely used and recommended for general-purpose power-frequency rectifier use. They are commonly used as rectifiers in AC adapters of electrical appliances to convert AC to DC, and are also used in other types of power converters, or as freewheeling diodes to protect circuits from inductive loads.
These are fairly low-speed rectifier diodes, being inefficient for square waves of more than 15 kHz. They are not designed for switching applications; datasheets often don't specify any information on their turn-on and turn-off characteristics.
Compared with signal diodes, rectifier diodes generally have higher current ratings, can have much higher reverse voltage ratings, but have higher leakage current and greater junction capacitance.
The following table lists part numbers in the 1N400x, 1N540x, and other popular general-purpose silicon rectifier diode families.