Reverse voltage can damage motors and other components in DC circuits. A simple and effective way to protect against it is using a flyback diode. Otherwise, it can be disastrous for expensive components.
What exactly is a Flyback Diode?
When a flyback diode is connected across the motor terminals, It prevents reverse voltage damage to the circuit. When the motor is working no reverse voltage is produced so the current is a negative bias in the diode, when the current suddenly stops flowing to the motor it produces reverse voltage that causes a forward bias in the diode so this reverse voltage doesn’t flow through the circuit.
Steps to use a Flyback Diode
1. It’s important to select the right diode. for low or medium power motors I use a 1N4007. Whereas, I use 1N5408 for powerful motors.
2. Wiring: connect the diode’s cathode to the anode of the motor. In a similar manner, connect the diode’s anode to the cathode of the motor. This means the diode should be reverse-biased during normal operation.
3. How it functions: When the motor stops or spins in reverse, the diode allows current to flow safely, protecting the circuit from back EMF.
Why only a diode?
-Simple: Just solder on the terminals.
– Cost-Effective: Diodes are cheap and ubiquitous.
– Reliable: Provides reliable protection against back EMF in DC circuits.
Conclusion
Using a flyback diode is an easy, affordable way to prevent reverse voltage from damaging your motor and components. It’s a quick fix with significant benefits for the durability of your circuit.
