Description
The BYW29-100 is a high-speed, Schottky barrier rectifier diode. Unlike the general-purpose diodes (like the 1N4007 or 1N5408) which are slow, the BYW29 is specifically engineered for high-frequency applications, providing low forward voltage drop and extremely fast switching times.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Rating |
| Peak Repetitive Reverse Voltage ($V_{RRM}$) | 100 V |
| Average Rectified Forward Current ($I_{O}$) | 9.0 A |
| Forward Voltage Drop ($V_{F}$) | ~0.8 V (at 9A) |
| Reverse Recovery Time ($t_{rr}$) | ~25 ns |
| Package Type | TO-220 (Heatsink mountable) |
Key Features & Advantages
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Fast Recovery: With a reverse recovery time of approximately 25 nanoseconds, this diode can handle high-frequency switching (often in the tens or hundreds of kHz range) without significant power loss. This makes it ideal for Switch Mode Power Supplies (SMPS).
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Low Forward Voltage ($V_{F}$): Because it is a Schottky-type diode, it has a lower voltage drop compared to standard silicon rectifiers. This results in higher efficiency and less heat generation at high current loads.
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Thermal Design: Unlike the axial-leaded diodes (1N4007/5408), the BYW29 comes in a TO-220 package. This allows you to bolt the device directly onto a heatsink, which is essential for dissipating heat when the diode is operating at its 9A capacity.
Critical Differences: Schottky vs. Standard Rectifiers
| Feature | 1N5408 (Standard) | BYW29-100 (Schottky/Fast) |
| Switching Speed | Very Slow (ms range) | Very Fast (ns range) |
| $V_{F}$ Drop | High (~1.2V) | Low (~0.8V) |
| Primary Use | Mains frequency (50/60Hz) | High-frequency Switching |
| Mounting | PCB (Leaded) | Heatsink (TO-220) |
Important Design Considerations
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Heatsink Requirement: At 9A, this diode will generate significant heat. You must use an appropriate heatsink. Failing to do so will cause the junction temperature to exceed its limits, leading to rapid device failure.
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Reverse Voltage Limit: With a $V_{RRM}$ of 100V, this is strictly a low-to-medium voltage device. Do not use this in rectified mains applications (120V/240V AC) as the peak voltage will far exceed the diode’s breakdown limit, causing it to short instantly.
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Application: This is designed for output stages of DC-DC converters, high-frequency rectification, or as a “catch” diode in high-speed pulse-width modulation (PWM) circuits.

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