Zener Diode Curve Tracer

About this project

ZenithBreak is an Arduino Uno-based Zener diode V-I characterizer that sweeps a variable reverse-bias voltage across the device under test and autonomously detects the avalanche breakdown threshold. A 10 kΩ potentiometer provides an adjustable 0–4.9 V stimulus; a 330 Ω series resistor limits current while the Arduino's dual ADC channels simultaneously measure sweep voltage (A0) and Zener anode voltage (A1), deriving reverse current from Kirchhoff's voltage law. An 8-sample rolling history buffer monitors Vz stability over a 400 ms window; when Iz exceeds 1 mA and peak-to-peak Vz variation falls below 100 mV, the system locks the breakdown voltage on a 20×4 I2C LCD and emits a dual-tone chirp. A green LED confirms breakdown detection, a red LED warns of over-current, and HOLD/RESET buttons allow the operator to freeze or clear readings. ZenithBreak teaches Zener physics, dual-channel ADC measurement, signal stability analysis, and threshold-based state locking.

What you get

• Complete, commented source code
• Full components list with quantities
• Pin-by-pin wiring guide and connection table
• Step-by-step upload and testing guide
• Project report (.docx, IEEE style)
• Presentation slides (.pptx)