PIN Diode

PIN Diode
It consists of heavily doped p & n regions separated by an intrinsic (i) region as shown below:

Unbiased PIN Diode

PIN Diode under Forward Bias

When forward biased, it acts like a current controlled variable resistance

PIN Diode under Reverse Bias

When Reverse bias, it acts like a nearly Constant Capacitance

Advantages of PIN Diode compared to an ordinary PN diode

A Faster response time, so it is useful at very high freq (above 300 MHz) It is capable to process even weak signals

Application of PIN Diode

As an AM modulator of very high frequency signals As pulse modulator As phase shifter Useful as RF & Microwave Switches Used in Attenuator Applications

Reference
Electronic Devices & Circuits by S Salivahanan