Diodes and Rectifiers - Arrays are particular categories within the broad field of Discrete Semiconductors. A diode is a two-terminal electronic component that conducts current primarily in one direction (asymmetric conductance); it exhibits low resistance in one direction, and high resistance in the other. Rectifiers, on the other hand, are devices that convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). The arrays are simply a series of these components combined into one unit. They play critical roles in many electronic functions, such as voltage regulation, signal demodulation, and power conversion.
Diodes and rectifiers have a range of uses, depending on the specific application. For instance, in power supply applications, they are used to convert AC to DC – a function that is essential for our electronics, which require DC voltage. In the realm of digital logic, diodes are used in circuits for functions like mixing, clamping, and voltage multipliers. Notable manufacturers of these components include ON Semiconductor, Vishay, STMicroelectronics, and Texas Instruments.