Handbook of Semiconductor Physics

Handbook of Semiconductor Physics provide an introduction to the physics of semiconductor materials and devices. Diodes are basic unidirectional semiconductor devices that will only allow current to flow through them in one direction only, acting more like a one way electrical valve, (Forward Biased Condition). But, before we have a look at how signal or power diodes work we first need to understand the semiconductors basic construction and concept. Semiconductors materials such as silicon (Si), germanium (Ge) and gallium arsenide (GaAs), have electrical properties somewhere in the middle, between those of a “conductor” and an “insulator”.

They are neither good conductors nor good insulators (hence their name “semi”-conductors). They have very few “free electrons” because their atoms are closely grouped together in a crystalline pattern called a “crystal lattice” but electrons are still able to flow, but only under special conditions. A semiconductor fabrication technology using a combination of n- and p-doped semiconductor material to achieve low power dissipation. Any path through a gate through which current can flow includes both n and p type transistors. Only one type is turned on in any stable state so there is no static power dissipation and current only flows when a gate switches in order to charge the parasitic capacitance.

This book is written in a lucid style, this student-friendly book is intended for undergraduate students of engineering. It would also suit the requirements of undergraduate and postgraduate students of science and electronics. With the inclusion of some new topics covering recent advances in the field, the book would be a useful reference for practising engineers and scientists.