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Introduction: Why Diode Selection Matters

For many engineers, selecting the right diode or rectifier is not as simple as checking a datasheet. The challenge lies in balancing multiple parameters—voltage, current, recovery time, and package type— while ensuring long-term reliability. This diode selection guide simplifies the process into clear rectifier selection steps that reduce design risks and improve efficiency.

1. Types of Diodes You Should Know

Before diving into how to choose diode for your design, let’s review the key categories:

• Schottky Diodes – Low forward voltage drop, fast switching, ideal for power supplies and high-frequency circuits.
• Fast Recovery Diodes – Optimized for reduced reverse recovery time, commonly used in lighting drivers, motor control, and industrial automation.
• TVS (Transient Voltage Suppression) Diodes – Protect sensitive circuits from ESD, surges, and transient spikes. Essential in automotive, communication, and industrial environments.
• General Rectifiers – Reliable, high-voltage devices used for AC/DC rectification and industrial power systems.

Diode & Rectifier Selection Guide Table

Type	Key Features	Typical Applications	Explore Products
Schottky Diode	Low VF (0.2–0.4V), very fast switching, low power loss	Power supply rectification, DC-DC converters, RF circuits	View Schottky Series
Fast Recovery Diode	Short reverse recovery time, moderate VF, high efficiency	LED drivers, motor control, industrial automation, SMPS	View Fast Recovery Series
TVS Diode	Transient voltage suppression, protects against ESD & surges	Circuit protection, automotive, communication, consumer electronics	View TVS Series
General Rectifier	High voltage rating, high surge current capability, reliable	AC/DC rectification, power adapters, industrial power supply	View Rectifier Series

Engineers can simplify component sourcing by choosing from manufacturers who provide full series coverage. Kingtronics offers a complete range of Schottky, Fast Recovery, TVS, and General Rectifiers — all with international certifications and competitive lead times.

2. Key Selection Criteria (Rectifier Selection Steps)

When working through rectifier selection steps, always evaluate these critical factors:

• Voltage Rating (VR, VRRM): Select a diode rated at least 20–30% above the circuit’s peak operating voltage.
• Current Rating (IF, IFSM): Ensure the device can handle both steady load current and surge currents during startup or transients.
• Forward Voltage Drop (VF): Lower VF improves efficiency and reduces heat loss, especially in power supply designs.
• Reverse Recovery Time (trr): Critical in high-speed switching applications such as SMPS or motor drives.
• Package Type (SMA, SMC, DO-214, etc.): Choose based on board space, thermal dissipation, and assembly method.

3. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even experienced engineers can misstep when selecting diodes:

• Choosing voltage too close to operating margin
  → Always add safety headroom.
• Ignoring surge current (IFSM)
  → Verify startup/inrush tolerance, not just average current.
• Overlooking thermal considerations
  → Small SMD packages may fail under sustained load.
• Confusing diode functions
  → A Schottky diode cannot replace a TVS in surge protection.

4. Application Examples

Practical use cases of how to choose diode effectively:

• Power Supply Circuits – Schottky diodes improve efficiency and reduce power loss.
• Lighting Systems – Fast recovery diodes provide stable performance in LED drivers.
• Industrial Control – High-surge rectifiers enhance reliability in automation systems.
• Circuit Protection – TVS diodes safeguard ICs from unexpected voltage spikes.

5. Simplifying the Selection Process

Pain Point: Engineers often face complex datasheets and ambiguous specs.
Highlight: A structured diode selection guide reduces guesswork and minimizes design errors.

Simple process flow:

1. Define application requirements (voltage, current, switching speed).
2. Identify the correct diode category (Schottky, Fast Recovery, TVS).
3. Match package type and thermal performance.
4. Validate surge and recovery specifications.

6. Extended Learning: Video Resource

▶ Watch this video for a visual introduction to diodes and rectifiers:

The video not only explains diode categories but also takes you inside Kingtronics’ factory, showing how strict quality processes ensure product reliability and performance.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Selecting the right diode or rectifier doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these rectifier selection steps, you’ll simplify the process, reduce design risks, and ensure better performance for your circuit.

Whether you are designing a new power supply, upgrading industrial control systems, or protecting sensitive circuits, Kingtronics provides not only a comprehensive diode portfolio, but also engineering support to guide you through the selection process.

👉 Explore our full range of Diodes & Rectifiers
👉 Need help with your design? Contact our technical team

Kingtronics will cancel the UL certification of bridge rectifiers, including KBPC25005-KBPC2510, KBPC25005W-KBPC2510W, KBPC35005-KBPC3510, and KBPC35005W-KBPC3510W…Those bridge rectifiers are metal case and high forward surge current capability.

Dear customers,

This is news related to you, Kingtronics Bridge Rectifier series are cancelling UL gradually, and will fully cancel UL certification in 2020. At the same time, Christmas day is approaching already to us and our office will be closed during vacation, so lead time is a little bit tight.

And also we need to consider at least one week to sign the contract, issue the PO, issue the LC or perform the advance payment. What’s more, shipment is subject to vessel availability and weather condition, and none of them is in my hands. If you place an order according to your project requirement, please confirm your order ASAP. We assure you that we will try our best to push the production and shipment.

Kingtronics Bridge Rectifier will be cancelled the UL approved in 2020, DB101-DB107, DB101S-DB107S, MB1S-MB10S series for example.

Good news !!! One more chance to help you cost down !
Our cost manager just updated much better offer for most of our standard value of bridge rectifier.
Welcome to check our offer with your inquiry ~^&^~

Kingtronics Bridge Rectifiers include:
DB101-DB107, DB101S-DB107S, MB1S-MB10S, KBL4005-KBL410, KBU6005-KBU610, KBP2005-KBP210, GBU4005-GBU410, GBJ6005-GBJ610, KBPC25005-KBPC2510, KBPC25005W-KBPC2510W, KBPC35005-KBPC3510, KBPC35005W-KBPC3510W…

Application:
LCD TV, CRT color TV sets, monitors, speakers, energy-saving lamps, microwave ovens, printers, set-top boxes, small household electrical appliances and other fields

Are you looking for Glass Passivated Bridge Rectifiers which can replace known brands with lower price and high quality ? Kt Kingtronics is undoubtedly a good choice for you. 
Please check detailed cross reference for MB2S to MB10S in below table, we believe you will find the satisfied products.

For more Kt Kingtronics Bridge Rectifiers MB2S to MB10S product information, you can browse in our official website: http://www.kingtronics.com/bridge-rectifiers/MB1S-MB10S.html.

Kt Kingtronics produce and sell many different kinds of bridge rectifiers with UL approval. You could please find fairchildsemi cross reference for our Bridge Rectifiers.
Please don’t hesitate to contact our sales team for your interested product.  We hope to help you saving your cost and your profit becomes bigger from our cooperation.

Kt Kingtronics Bridge Rectifiers can cross part from diotec. Why not try to work with us? We have confidence you will benefit much. Kt Kingtronics offer you fast delivery, competitive price, certified quality, considerate service.
Welcome to share us your order request! We will give you the greatest support.