 One Ge (top) and three Si (bottom) photodiodes | |
| Type | Passive, diode |
|---|---|
| Working principle | Converts light into current |
| Pin configuration | anode and cathode |
| Electronic symbol | |
_8.5.4.1.svg) | |
A photodiode is a semiconductor diode sensitive to photon radiation, such as visible light, infrared or ultraviolet radiation, X-rays and gamma rays.[1] It produces an electrical current when it absorbs photons. This can be used for detection and measurement applications, or for the generation of electrical power in solar cells. Photodiodes are used in a wide range of applications throughout the electromagnetic spectrum from visible light photocells to gamma ray spectrometers.
- ^ Pearsall, Thomas (2010). Photonics Essentials, 2nd edition. McGraw-Hill. ISBN 978-0-07-162935-5. Archived from the original on 2021-08-17. Retrieved 2021-02-25.