[sdiy] matching of diodes

[patchell]

    Besides germanium diodes, shottky diodes would work as well, although, they
are harder to get.  I used to us 1n6263 (I think that is the right number, or
was it 1n6362?....).

    For matching, you will want to run about the same amount of current through
them as will be operating in the circuit.  So, all you will need is a volt
meter, power supply, resistor and the diode you want to test.  Connect V+ to
resistor, resistor to Anode, and Cathode to V-.  And the meter across the diode.

    Actually matching them is going to be a bit of a problem.  Touching them
will change the forward drop, so you will want to handle them with a pair of
pliers.  Also, changes in room temperature will also change the voltage.
Anyway, just start sticking them in the circuit, and measure the foward voltage
drop.

    Hope this helps...

Rob Mantel wrote:

> Hi all,
>
> In this schematic I have here, in the part that converts a saw to a triangle
> 2 diodes are used for that purpose. It says it is best to use 2 matched
> germanium diodes for this purpose. Now my question is, I have quite some
> AA118 and AA119 diodes here, but how exactly would I match them? How do I
> select the best ones?
>
> Thanks,
> Rob

--
 -Jim
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