Zener diode vs rectifier diode: The comparation of Gaussian probability distribution charts from full-wave rectifier circuits

The aim of this research is to get an explanation why the use of zener diode in full-wave rectifier circuit is not suitable. The diode used in this research is IN4728 zener diode and IN4002 rectifier diode, which is connected to 1,200 ohm resistor. The circuit is supplied with 5-volt AC power supply with frequency of 50 Hz. The output voltage data of the diode is clipped by using LoggerPro voltage sensor. The data is processed by fitting the data according to the Gaussian probability distribution. The results showed that the Gaussian probability distribution chart of the circuit using IN4728 zener diode has an asymmetric shape, unlike the Gaussian probability distribution chart of the circuit using an IN4002 rectifier diode that has a symmetrical shape. The IN4728 zener diode has breakdown voltage of 3.3 V. When reversed bias is occur and the source voltage exceeds the breakdown voltage of the zener diode, the voltage still pass through the zener diode at 3.3 V. This causes the charts of its Gaussian probability distribution has an asymmetric shape. So it can be concluded that the use of IN4728 zener diode for rectifier circuit is not suitable.