Schottky barrier diode

A Schottky barrier diode, also known as a hot carrier diode, is a type of semiconductor diode formed by the junction of a semiconductor and a metal. The name "Schottky diode" is derived from the German physicist Walter H. Schottky. It features a low forward voltage drop and extremely fast switching operation. The cats whisker detector, used in early radio power applications and in the early development of metal rectifiers, is considered a prototype of the Schottky diode. When a sufficient forward voltage is applied, current flows in the forward direction. While a standard silicon p-n diode has a typical forward voltage of 600–700 mV, the forward voltage for a Schottky diode is 150–450 mV. The lower forward voltage requirement of the Schottky diode enables faster switching speeds and improved system efficiency.