Zener diode for relay protection????

Can we use the zener diode for relay protection?.If yes how will it improves the performance?...

Posted by vinayaka on 24/01/2007, at 12:47 GMT

Zener Diode for relay Protection.

Zener diode are not normally used to give relay protection. A reverse connected diode is used connected in parallel across the relay coil with the cathode of the diode towards positve supply. For protection on ac supplies I would use a voltage dependant resistor (VDR)or varistor which unfornately are not available in as a wide selection of voltages. However I suppose 2 series back to back connected zeners (bands on the diode packages connected together)could be used in a similar fashion chosing a suitable voltage rating.

Posted by varient4121 on 28/02/2011, at 15:54 GMT