I.

Aim:- Testing of PN junction diode using multimeter

II. Apparatus: - Multimeter, diode
III. Theory:
➢ Diode Definition: A diode is defined as a semiconductor device that allows electric current to
flow in one direction only.
➢ Diode Test Mode: This mode on digital multimeters applies a small voltage to a diode and
measures the voltage drop, indicating the diode’s condition.
➢ Testing with Diode Test Mode: Connect the multimeter leads to the diode, read the voltage drop,
and compare it to expected values for silicon or germanium diodes.
➢ Using Resistance Mode: When diode test mode isn’t available, resistance mode can measure the
diode’s resistance in both forward and reverse bias.

A diode is a semiconductor device that allows electric current to flow in one direction only. It has two
terminals: an anode (positive) and a cathode (negative). A diode is said to be forward-biased when the
anode is connected to a higher voltage than the cathode and reverse-biased when the opposite is true.
Testing a diode helps verify its functionality and quality.

Diode Test Mode

Diode test mode is a special function on some digital multimeters that are designed specifically for testing
diodes. It applies a small voltage (usually around 2 V) across the diode and measures the voltage drop,
which indicates the resistance of the diode. Diode test mode is usually indicated by a diode symbol on the
multimeter dial or display.

Diode test mode is usually the best and easiest method to test a diode, providing direct and accurate
readings. However, not all multimeters have this function, and some diodes may need higher voltages. In
such cases, other testing methods are necessary.

If the readings are different from what is expected, then the diode may be faulty or damaged. A low
voltage drop in both directions means the diode is shorted (low resistance). A high voltage drop or OL in
both directions means the diode is open (high resistance).

Test a Diode with Resistance Mode

Resistance mode is another function on digital multimeters that can be used to test diodes. It measures
how many current flows through a component when a known voltage is applied. Resistance mode is
usually indicated by an ohm symbol (Ω) on the multimeter dial or display.

If diode test mode is unavailable or insufficient, resistance mode can test diodes. However, it may not
always be reliable due to factors like battery condition, lead resistance, and temperature.

If the readings are different from what is expected, then the diode may be faulty or damaged. A low
resistance value in both directions means the diode is shorted (low resistance). A high resistance value or
OL in both directions means the diode is open (high resistance).
IV. Procedure:

1. Diode Test Mode

To test a diode with diode test mode, follow these steps:

i) Turn off the power source of the circuit that contains the diode. If possible, remove the diode
from the circuit for more accurate results.
ii) Set the multimeter to diode test mode by rotating the dial or pressing the button.
iii) Connect the positive (red) lead of the multimeter to the anode of the diode, and the negative
(black) lead to the cathode. The diode is now forward-biased.
iv) Read the voltage drop on the multimeter display. A good silicon diode should have a voltage drop
between 0.5 V and 0.8 V. A good germanium diode should have a voltage drop between 0.2 V
and 0.3 V.
v) Reverse the leads of the multimeter, so that the positive lead is on the cathode and the negative
lead is on the anode. The diode is now reverse-biased.
vi) Read the voltage drop on the multimeter display again. A good diode should show OL (overload),
which means infinite resistance or no current flow.

2. Test a Diode with Resistance Mode

To test a diode with resistance mode, follow these steps:

i) Turn off the power source of the circuit that contains the diode. If possible, remove the diode
from the circuit for more accurate results.
ii) Set the multimeter to resistance mode by rotating the dial or pressing the button. Choose a low
range (such as 1 kΩ) for better sensitivity.
iii) Connect the positive (red) lead of the multimeter to the anode of the diode, and the negative
(black) lead to the cathode. The diode is now forward-biased.
iv) Read the resistance value on the multimeter display. A good diode should have a resistance value
between 1 kΩ and 10 MΩ, depending on the type and quality of the diode.
 v) Reverse the leads of the multimeter, so that the positive lead is on the cathode and the negative
lead is on the anode. The diode is now reverse-biased.
vi) Read the resistance value on the multimeter display again. A good diode should show OL
(overload), which means infinite resistance or no current flow.

V. Observation Table:

Diode test mode value displayed Resistance test mode value displayed
Sr. No. Diode No.
on multimeter on multimeter

VI. Result:

VII. Conclusion:

Testing a diode is a simple and useful way to check its functionality and quality. It can be done with
either an analog or a digital multimeter, using different modes and methods. The main principle is to
measure the resistance or voltage drop across the diode when it is forward-biased and reverse-biased, and
compare it with the expected values for a good diode. A good diode should have low resistance in
forward bias and high resistance in reverse bias. A faulty or damaged diode may have low or high
resistance in both directions or no resistance at all.