Negative differential conductance is a non-linear operating region in certain components where current drops as voltage rises. This behavior is essential for building oscillators and amplifiers at microwave frequencies. Devices like tunnel diodes and Gunn diodes exploit this property to generate high-frequency signals.
Heard on the job
Check the IV curve on that tunnel diode to make sure it still exhibits a strong NDC region.
Related terms
NDR
A non-linear electrical characteristic where current decreases as the applied voltage increases.
Diode
A two-terminal semiconductor component that restricts electrical current to flow in only one direction.
Gunn effect
A phenomenon where a direct current applied to a semiconductor creates high-frequency microwave oscillations.