RCA Tunnel Diode Manual

New Jersey: RCA, 1963. — 160 p.When the phenomenon of tunneling in a p-n junction semiconductor diode was first reported, RCA scientists immediately recognized the importance of this effect for potential use in highspeed semiconductor devices. Since then, great strides have been made both in the theoretical understanding of the tunnel effect in semiconductors and in its utilization in circuit elements. Today, tunnel diodes are finding increasing uses in high-speed switching circuits for computers, in microwave equipment, and in electronic instrumentation. This manual has been prepared to assist design engineers in the practical use of tunnel diodes. It includes basic theory, construction, and other general information describing the tunnel diode. The switching capability of the tunnel diode is explained in detail, and several representative circuits are given. Design considerations for the use of the tunnel diode as a microwave amplifier, converter, and oscillator device are explained in detail. High-current applications and several unusual tunnel-diode circuits are also included; as well as practical circuits for the measurement of important tunnel-diode parameters. The manual also includes a data section giving ratings and characteristics for RCA tunnel diodes.