Reverse IV characteristics of SCR
- Figure shows that the reverse characteristics of an SCR is very similar to that of a diode.
- As long as the reverse anode to cathode voltage is less than the reverse breakover voltage, a small reverse anode current flows due to minority carriers.
- But as soon as a reverse voltage equal to or greater than breakdown voltage is applied, a very large anode current flows due to avalanche breakdown.
- This should be avoided to protect the SCR from getting damaged.
Effect of gate current (Significance of gate current)
- Look at Figure It shows that as we increase the positive gate current from IG1 to IG4 the breakover voltage of SCR VBO reduces progressively. Thus SCR will turn on at lower anode to cathode voltages as we increase the gate current.