Examine the diode carefully and note the color of the casing and the band. The band color is usually black, though some are white or red. The function of the band is to indicate the diode’s cathode or negative terminal. The casing is normally colored, though a few are clear.

Observe the lettering on the diode’s case. Do this by rotating the diode. To conserve space, the first few letters are not always written on the same side as the others, and so the total must be combined. For example, an orange diode with a black stripe and the lettering “1N4” and “148” means that the component is a 1N4148.

Find a manufacturer’s or supplier’s website, such as Fairchild Semiconductor, ON Semiconductor, NXP Semiconductors or NTE Electronics. Sites such as these keep searchable databases for customers to find information about parts. The databases will give details on a diode's appearance, specifications and usage. They will also normally include data sheets.

Practice inputting 1N4148 into any of the databases. The 1N4148 is identified as a high-speed switching diode that is made from silicon. Some websites will describe all of its variations, so be careful to choose the one that is in the correct package. For example, Fairchild Semiconductor will list the 1N4148 in a DO-35 package that is cylindrical and made of glass.

Practice searching for specifications on 1N914 and 1N4743A. The 1N914 is a high-speed switching diode that is similar to the 1N4148. The 1N4743A is a zener diode that can provide a reference voltage of 13 volts and is heat resistant.