Since its 1963 debut in Motorola labs, this unassuming component has quietly revolutionized power management. Over six decades, engineers have integrated it into everything from military radar systems to smartphone chargers. Its secret? A flawless balance of simplicity and reliability in controlling electrical flow.
We specialize in components that form the backbone of modern electronics. Our team understands how critical it is to source parts with proven performance. The grey-bar-marked device we're examining today demonstrates why some designs remain timeless across generations of technological advancement.
Proper orientation matters when working with directional current regulators. That distinctive cathode marking prevents installation errors in power supplies and AC adapters. Manufacturers trust this rectification workhorse because it consistently delivers 1A forward current capacity with minimal voltage drop.
Key Takeaways
- Introduced in 1963 as part of Motorola's industrial-grade component series
- Enables single-direction current flow from anode to cathode terminal
- Identifiable by standardized grey bar marking on cathode end
- Foundational member of the 1N400x rectifier family
- Essential for converting AC to DC in power supplies worldwide
- Maintains stable performance across temperature variations
- Available with full technical documentation for quality assurance
Product Overview: 1N4001 Diode Specs
For over five decades, this rectifier has maintained its position as the backbone of low-voltage power conversion. Its standardized design simplifies integration while delivering predictable results across industrial applications.
Precision Engineering for Consistent Results
We supply components that handle 1-ampere continuous current with only 1.1V forward voltage drop. Our inventory ensures you receive parts tested for 50V peak reverse voltage protection – critical for AC/DC conversion stability. The DO-41 package we stock enables seamless replacement across legacy and modern systems.
Built for Demanding Environments
You gain components rated for -55°C to +175°C operation, making them suitable for automotive and industrial settings. Our quality checks verify the 5µA maximum reverse current specification, preventing leakage issues in sensitive circuits. With 30A surge protection capabilities, these rectifiers absorb unexpected power spikes effectively.
We prioritize devices that balance 3-watt dissipation limits with compact dimensions. This ensures your power supplies maintain efficiency without requiring oversized heat sinks. Our technical team confirms each shipment meets original 60Hz frequency performance standards for reliable rectification.
Technical Specifications and Pin Configuration
Understanding component architecture ensures optimal performance in your designs. Our documentation provides clear guidance for integrating this rectification solution across various circuit layouts.
Pin Diagram and Terminal Functions
We deliver components with standardized axial lead orientation for error-free installation. The anode (positive terminal) accepts incoming current flow, while the grey-striped cathode directs it outward. Proper alignment prevents reverse-bias damage in power conversion systems.
Electrical Characteristics and Ratings
Our quality-tested units handle 50V continuous reverse voltage with 60V surge protection capacity. The table below details critical operational parameters:
| Parameter | Value | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Forward Current | 1.0A | Continuous |
| Peak Surge Current | 30A | Single cycle |
| Reverse Leakage | 10µA | 50V applied |
| Voltage Drop | 1.1V | 1A load |
Thermal Limits and Packaging Details
You receive components rated for -65°C to +175°C operation across industrial environments. Choose between through-hole DO-41 packages or surface-mount variants - both maintain 9.5mm lead spacing for optimal thermal dissipation.
"Proper lead spacing directly impacts current handling capacity in high-temperature applications."
Our technical team verifies all 3W power dissipation specifications before shipment. Contact us for complete junction capacitance data and frequency response charts.
Applications and Circuit Integration
Modern electronics rely on components that perform multiple roles while maintaining operational stability. Our technical support team helps engineers implement this general-purpose rectifier across diverse systems requiring controlled energy conversion.
Rectifier and Power Supply Circuits
We deliver components that transform alternating current into stable DC power. In half-wave configurations, our rectifiers conduct during positive cycles while blocking reverse flow – producing DC outputs calculated as 0.318 × peak AC voltage. You achieve this with simple setups using:
- 1KΩ load resistors
- Standard AC sources
- Precision cathode-terminal alignment
Full-wave bridge designs double conversion efficiency by utilizing both waveform halves. Our diodes handle 60Hz frequencies flawlessly, making them ideal for wall adapters and battery chargers.
Protection Devices and Current Regulation
You can safeguard sensitive equipment using our components' reverse-blocking capabilities. The 50V peak rating prevents voltage spikes from damaging microcontroller inputs or sensor arrays. Key implementations include:
- Polarity protection in automotive systems
- Surge suppression in power supplies
- Current direction control in voltage doublers
Our engineers provide technical specifications for creating fail-safe circuits that maintain unidirectional flow under varying loads. The 0.7V forward drop ensures predictable performance across temperature fluctuations.
Conclusion
In component sourcing, few parts match the proven track record of this rectification solution. We supply authentic 1N4001 units from Vishay, Diotec, and ON Semiconductor – manufacturers maintaining strict quality control for industrial applications. Our network ensures you receive components tested for 50V reverse voltage stability and 1A current capacity.
You save significantly compared to pricier alternatives like EM513-series diodes without sacrificing performance. Our inventory includes equivalent options such as 1N5408 for higher loads or 1N4148 for faster switching needs. Each shipment comes with verified thermal ratings (-55°C to +175°C) and surge protection documentation.
As a Shenzhen-based distributor, we streamline your procurement of critical rectifier components for power supplies and protection circuits. Our technical team confirms polarity markings and pin configurations to prevent board-level errors. Trust components that balance cost efficiency with six decades of real-world validation across voltage conversion tasks.
Global manufacturers rely on our expertise to source parts meeting original 3W dissipation limits and 60Hz frequency requirements. Contact us for components that keep your production lines running with uncompromised reliability.
FAQ
What is the maximum reverse voltage supported by this rectifier?
The device handles up to 50V in reverse bias, making it suitable for low-voltage AC-to-DC conversion. Always stay below this limit to prevent breakdown and ensure stable performance.
Can it safely manage high surge currents?
Yes, the component withstands 30A non-repetitive peak surges, ideal for mitigating inrush currents in power supplies. For continuous operation, keep within the 1A forward current rating.
How do I identify the cathode terminal during installation?
The cathode is marked with a stripe near one end of the axial-lead package. Verify polarity using a multimeter if markings are unclear to avoid reverse-bias circuit failures.
What thermal precautions are required for PCB integration?
Operate below 175°C junction temperature. Use adequate board spacing, heat sinks for high-load scenarios, and avoid prolonged exposure above 50°C ambient to maintain reliability.
Why choose this model over other 1N400x variants?
While part of the same family, the 1N4001’s 50V reverse voltage suits cost-sensitive, low-power designs. Higher-voltage applications may require 1N4002–1N4007 variants.
Is it compatible with high-frequency switching circuits?
No, its recovery time limits use to line-frequency (50/60Hz) rectification. For fast-switching applications, consider Schottky diodes with lower reverse recovery losses.
