Understanding of basic semiconductors
Trying to update my understanding of basic semiconductors.
It has been a very long time since I seriously looked at semiconductors. The most basic semiconductor application is a diode.
From Wikipedia, I see a picture: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Two_diode_structures.png , and I'm not sure if my understanding of it is correct.
I understand about p and n doping, but I've never seen "p+" nor "n+" nor "n-". From my own thinking, I guess "x+" and "x-" denote over- and under- doped semiconductors, is that correct?
I can guess that the n over-doping is to prevent to accidentally create a Schottky barrier.
If so, the metal to "p+" junction would act as a Schottky barrier, doing the actual work of the diode. Is that true?
I don't know what to think about the "p+" to "n-" junction, and I have absolutely now idea what that "p guard" is good for.
1 answer
From my own thinking, I guess "x+" and "x-" denote over- and under- doped semiconductors, is that correct?
"+" stands for heavy doping. "-" stands for light doping. n+ and p+ are heavily doped. n- and p- are lightly doped.
If so, the metal to "p+" junction would act as a Schottky barrier, doing the actual work of the diode. Is that true?
A junction between metal and p- (lightly doped) would be a Schottky junction. A junction between metal and heavily doped semiconductor is effectively ohmic, and conduct the same in both directions.
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