The Compatibility of DIACs and LEDs

DIACs and LEDs are both devices designed for electrical current to flow through. They are also physically similar. An LED has a single p-n semiconductor junction that emits light as current passes through. LEDs are physically sized according to the current required to produce the desired light output.

A DIAC is a stacked p-n-p-n semiconductor. The bidirectionality of the breakover voltage rating is controlled by matching the doping of the two p-type semiconductor regions. Once triggered, a DIAC operates as a fully saturated NPN transistor until the current drops below its holding current rating. Like LEDs, diodes and transistors, DIACs are physically sized according to the intended current flow.

As devices intended for handling current, the Voltage-to-Current (VI) curve for both DIACs and LEDs is non-linear. When conducting, large variations in current result in small voltage changes, thus improving operating efficiency.

Consequently, DIACs and LEDs offer inherent compatibility when used as display elements. This is important for DIAC display technology because the technology relies on pulse driven discharges, which produce current peaks. The non-linear VI curves are beneficial for minimizing power consumption in response to these current peaks.