[sdiy] LEDs as Diodes

[Pat Kammerer]

Hi all,

I'm working on an envelope follower design right now, and had a question for
someone who might know better.  I really like the trend of LEDs being used
in the place of usual silicon diodes for circuits, and I would like to use
this technique in my circuit.  I would hope that the light emition would
respond to signal/voltage levels present.

So the question...  Are there circumstances where a silicon diode (such as
1N4148) absolutely cannot be replaced with an LED?  Are there some basic
guidelines to modifying a circuit to accept an LED instead?

I'm guessing the big difference would be voltage drop right?  Hmmm...
something to ponder whilst I sleep.

Thanks,
Pat