A Tunnel Diode Analogue

Abstract

A versatile frequency analogue capable of simulating non-linear characteristics of a tunnel diode is described. The parameters of the analogue are easily variable enabling the tolerance of circuits to variations in tunnel diode parameters to be readily ascertained. Further, the large magnitude of the parameters and the small bandwidth makes investigations into stability criteria, non-linear oscillations and switching to be carried out with ease. Linear stability criteria are verified and demonstrated experimentally by the use of the analogue. Determination of the limit cycle and the hysterisis in boundary conditions is discussed with the aid of presently available non-linear analysis, and results demonstrated experimentally.