My electronics textbook says the following regarding a voltage regulator with a Zener diode:
For proper operation of this circuit, the diode must remain in the breakdown re- gion and the power dissipation in the diode must not exceed its rated value. In other words:
- The current in the diode is a minimum, IZ(min), when the load current is a maximum, IL(max), and the source voltage is a minimum, VPS(min).
- The current in the diode is a maximum, IZ(max), when the load current is a minimum, IL(min), and the source voltage is a maximum, VPS(max)
(VPS is the source voltage).
I dont get why those conditions follow from wanting to be in the breakdown region and not exceeding the power rated value.
Namely, for example, I want an explanation for why first and second conditions are necessary consequences of proper functionality.
Thanks.