The Use Of Diodes In Signal Processing And Filtering

Image source Stanford University

Signal processing and filtering are essential components of electronic engineering. These are two separate processes that are normally executed together. There are different types of signals in the electronics. They include audio signals, video signals, images, data signals, and power signals among others. In both signal processing and filtering, the signals get into the circuits as input and are produced as output signals after filtering and processing.

Various electronic components are used in the signal processing and filtering. These components end up making electronic circuits that perform the roles of processing and filtering.

One of these main components for signal filtering and processing is diodes. These are electronic devices that are designed to ensure that electric current or signals move in one direction only, and not in the opposite direction. Diodes use the same working mechanism to implement signal filtering and processing functionalities in the actual electronic devices. Keep reading as we discuss the essence of diodes in signal processing and filtering.

Overview of signal filtering and processing

Before we even look at the relevance of diodes, let’s look at what both signal filtering and processing entail.

In the world of electronics, signal filtering is the process of manipulating signals so as to achieve specific desired outputs. In most cases, the process will involve the removal of unwanted components from the signals so that the output signal is clear and free of noise. Let’s use audio signals as an example, filtering helps to improve the quality of sound that is coming from various output devices. The same applies to the light signals as filtering improves the clarity of light signals that are coming from the source.

There are different types of signal filtering techniques that are deployed and as well as the intensity of the signals being filtered. These types range from high-pass filters to low-pass filters. Regardless of the type, the end goal is to have clear and desired signals as the output data. Electronic components such as diodes form part of the circuits that implement the electronic filtering process.

Just like filtering, signal processing also entails the manipulation of data to get the desired outcome.  Some aspects of signal processing may cover filtering. Usually, the signals will have to be filtered before they are processed. From the processing phase, signals will be ready to be relayed to the output devices.

Signal diodes

When it comes to signal filtering and processing, there are specialized diodes that are used. These are the signal diodes. They are commonly used in small currents that run different signals. Their application areas include television, radio, and audio systems among others. These diodes support the flow of signals in one direction.

Power is the main differentiating factor between ordinary diodes and signal diodes. However, they have the capacity to handle different frequencies of signals.  This is an important function when analyzing the switching operations of signals in the circuits.

Silicon and germanium are the main materials used on the signal diodes. While both are semiconductor materials, there is some slight variance in terms of their reverse resistance properties.

Diodes are used for signal modulation

One of the key functions of diodes in signal filtering is modulation. Probably you know of the AM and FM when it comes to audio signals.  Modulation is essential in the efficient transmission of the signals. Modulation is performed by the specialized diode ring modulator, which in most applications is the Schottky diode.

During the modulation process, diodes control the phases of the input signals. The determine whether the signal will have a phase reversal and at the same time control the degree of that reversal. Signal modulation will determine the speed at which signals are propagated. In doing so, it directly affects the quality of the signals.

Signal rectification

Another key role of diodes when it comes to signal processing and filtering is to rectify the signals. This simply refers to the process of converting the signals into a form that can be processed by the device. In most cases, the electric signals in a circuit will be converted from AC to DC form.

The fact that diodes are unidirectional means that they allow signals to move in one direction only. By doing so, they eliminate the negative propagation of the audio and power signals hence facilitating the conversion from AC to DC.

From the conversion, it will be easier for the signals to be filtered and even processed by other electronic components.

Signal regulation

Most signal filtering and processing circuits are designed to handle specific ranges of signals. Large signals may end up overwhelming the circuits and this can lead to the distortion of the signals. Diodes are included in the signal processing circuits to clip the signals. They ensure that the input signal that is getting into the processor does not exceed a specific threshold. Limiting the power of signals is also one method of filtering since the excess signals are eliminated leaving the desired signals to get into the circuit.

Protect the signal processing and filtering components

Diodes are added in the signal processing circuits to shield the processors and filters from the dangers of excess electric current. They ensure that the voltage in the circuit does not exceed a specific limit.

Additionally, diodes determine the direction of the currents. They have the capacity to block the undesired current from getting into the processors, most of which comprise of sensitive components.

Conclusion

I hope that from this article, you will be able to appreciate the roles of diodes in signal processing and filtering. They must be included in the circuits and devices that are built for both the two functions; filtering and processing. From the circuits, they will perform their respective functions on the devices designed for processing and filtering.

Are you building a device that will be used for signal processing and filtering?  You should proceed to get the right diodes for the jobs. Check out the power requirements, type, design, and other key specifications of diodes before you include them in your application area.

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