Solid State Electronic Devices, 7th Edition

5.5 Transient and A-C Conditions

We have considered the properties of p-n junctions under equilibrium conditions and with steady state current flow. Most of the basic concepts of junction devices can be obtained from these properties, except for the important behavior of junctions under transient or a-c conditions. Since most solid state devices are used for switching or for processing a-c signals, we cannot claim to understand p-n junctions without knowing at least the basics of time-dependent processes. Unfortunately, a complete analysis of these effects involves more mathematical manipulation than is appropriate for an introductory discussion. Basically, the problem involves solving the various current flow equations in two simultaneous variables, ...