Simple piecewise-linear diode model for transient behaviour

Abstract

Transient behaviour of a pn-junction diode can be correctly predicted by a simple piecewise-linear model comprising one linear resistor and one linear capacitor under forward bias and only a linear capacitance under reverse bias. These are selected by a voltage-controlled switch which is the only nonlinear element. Starting from solid-state analysis, an algorithm is developed for extracting values for model parameters from measurements. Simulation and experimental results confirm the accuracy of the model, the great strength of which is that it allows analytical results to be obtained for the complicated and chaotic nonlinear phenomena in series-resonant converters and other practical electronic circuits.