This document discusses special diodes such as zener diodes, varactor diodes, LEDs, photodiodes, and laser diodes. It describes how zener diodes can be used for voltage regulation and limiting by maintaining a constant voltage over a range of currents. Varactor diodes have a variable capacitance based on reverse bias voltage. LEDs emit light when forward biased while photodiodes produce a current proportional to light intensity. Other diodes discussed include Schottky diodes, PIN diodes, and tunnel diodes used for RF applications.