Biasing Bias or biasing as a method of establishing a set of currents or voltages at different points of an electronic circuit to establish proper operating conditions within an electronic component. Although this is a simplified version of the answer, it is still fundamentally correct. Furthermore, with biasing, resides the two types of biasing, forward bias and reverse bias. A diode (PN junction) functions much like a one-way highway since it allows the flow of current more easily in one direction than the other. In summary, a diode typically conducts current in one direction, and the voltage they apply follows a described forward biasing orientation. However, when the voltage moves in the reverse direction, we refer to this orientation as reverse bias. Also, when in reverse bias, a standard PN junction diode will typically inhibit or block the flow of current, almost like an electronic version of a check valve. Forward Bias: This bias condition incorporates the connecting of a positive voltage potential to the P-type material and a negative to the N-type material across the diode, thus decreasing the width of the diode. Reverse Bias: In contrast, this biasing condition involves the connection of a negative voltage potential to the P-type material and a positive to the Ntype material across the diode, thus increasing the width of the diode. Zero Bias: This is a bias condition in which there is no external voltage potential applied to the diode. Forward Bias vs. Reverse Bias In a standard diode, forward biasing occurs when the voltage across a diode permits the natural flow of current, whereas reverse biasing denotes a voltage across the diode in the opposite direction. However, the voltage present across a diode during reverse biasing does not produce any significant flow of current. Furthermore, this particular characteristic is beneficial for changing alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). There are a variety of other uses for this characteristic, including electronic signal control.