# Diodes in parallel or series

I am wondering what the effects are of putting diodes in parallel or putting them in series. (like current capabilities, voltage capabilities etc.) Let's say I have a datasheet of a diode. What characteristics would change ? My estimation is that putting parallel would increase the current capabilities, but may have a negative effect in reverse leakage. I have no idea if I am right or how to test it, so any info on diodes in parallel or series would be great.

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Connecting diodes in series (AK-AK --|<--|<--) will increase the forward voltage of the resultant diode.

Connecting diodes in series (AK-KA --|<-->|--) will cause an open circuit until peak inverse voltage (smallest diode) is applied on total resultant.

Connecting diodes in parallel (AK/AK --|<-- + --|<--) will increase the current carrying capacity of the diode.

Connecting diodes in parallel (AK/KA --|<-- + -->|--) will not get you a resultant diode conduction in both sides.

I hope my illustrations are understandable :-)

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I am affraid you cannot increase current capability so easily. At least some small resistors in series would be handy in that parallel combination of diodes. –  Al Kepp Jan 7 '13 at 6:16