Correcting 3-Diode Limiter Imbalance

[w5hro]

After much analysis the 3-diode negative peak limiter appears to have a significant imbalance. This imbalance can easily cause the diodes to blow which has in fact been the case from various reports through the years. This imbalance is greatly multiplied when modern solid state diodes are connected in series.

Below are 3 simulations of the 3-diode limiter using perfect diodes that show the time durations and currents when each diode conducts.

As you can see both D2 and D3 have a problem because of this imbalance.

Values used for the simulation:

R1 = 6K
R3 = 60K

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