Explanation of How Diode RM-790 Prevents Circuit Backfeeding

Updated 02/06/2017 | Published 02/04/2017

Question:

Hey Etrailer - quick question. Im wondering exactly how one of your parts works its RM-790, the battery isolating diode. Is my understanding correct that it allows current to flow in one direction but not the other? Many thanks!

asked by: Gerry S

Expert Reply:

Diodes like the part # RM-790 only allow current to flow in one direction.

Usually a diode is a small cylindrical shaped component (not in this case) which has two leads on it, the anode and the cathode.

When the anode side of the diode is facing towards the positive power source of the voltage it will allow the circuit to be completed and is considered "forward biased." If the cathode side of the diode is facing towards the positive side of the voltage then the diode will not allow the circuit to be completed.

expert reply by: Jameson C