Question 9.6: Piecewise-Linear Model for a Zener Diode Find circuit models...

For line segment A of Figure 9.19, the intercept on the voltage axis is 0.6 V and the reciprocal of the slope is 10 Ω. Hence, the circuit model for the diode on this segment is a 10-Ω resistance in series with a 0.6-V source, as shown in the figure. Line segment B has zero current, and therefore, the equivalent circuit for segment B is an open circuit, as illustrated in the figure. Finally, line segment C has an intercept of –6 V and a reciprocal slope of 12 Ω, resulting in the equivalent circuit shown. Thus, this diode can be approximated by one of these linear circuits, depending on where the operating point is located.