Schottky diode have a low forward voltage drop (typically \$0.15-0.45V\$) and very fast switching action, as compared to traditional diode, which typically have a \$0.7V\$ voltage drop (Silicon diodes). What is then the advantage of traditional diode as compared to Schottky diodes?
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1\$\begingroup\$ They're cheaper! \$\endgroup\$– Nick JohnsonCommented Dec 18, 2014 at 16:43
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\$\begingroup\$ Not enough for an answer, but in one application when I used diodes for a simple bridge rectifier, traditional silicon diodes proved to be better due to their higher voltage drop, because the result was lower power dissipation in the voltage regulator. \$\endgroup\$– AndrejaKoCommented Dec 18, 2014 at 16:49
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\$\begingroup\$ Schottky: More costly. If you need high voltage, the Vf advantage quickly decreases (20V <10ns 1N5817 0.45V@1A 40V 1N5819 0.6V@1A vs. 400V 50ns UF4004 1.0V@1A) so it pretty much disappears by 100V. Reverse leakage can be very high, esp. at high temperatures. Ultrafast high voltage diodes and gold doped diodes can be an advantage. \$\endgroup\$– Spehro 'speff' PefhanyCommented Dec 18, 2014 at 19:26
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2 Answers
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Full semiconductor junction diodes have much lower reverse leakage. Take a look at a Schottky diode datasheet, and note the reverse leakage, particularly at maximum working temperature.
Semiconductor junction diodes are also available at much higher reverse voltages.
answered Dec 18, 2014 at 16:52
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Schottky diodes typically have much higher reverse leakage currents than traditional diodes.
answered Dec 18, 2014 at 16:45
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\$\begingroup\$ Hmm I assume the leakage current goes hand in hand with the lower barrier height. (It takes less thermal energy to make a carrier.) \$\endgroup\$ Commented Dec 18, 2014 at 17:32