In this article, we will explore the basic functions of the Zener Diode. This device resembles a compact cylinder, much like the conventional diode, with two terminals at the ends that can be wired or ...

[Kevin] doesn’t stock zener diodes anymore. Why? Because for everything he used to use zeners, he now uses TL431 bandgap voltage references. These look like zener diodes but have an extra terminal.

Maxim Integrated Application Note 4003 continues and explains the fundamentals of the shunt voltage reference: A shunt reference has two terminals, OUT and GND. It is similar in concept to a zener ...