A rectifier is an electronic device or circuit whose main purpose is to convert alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC).
🔄 Why is this important?
- Most electronic devices need DC power to operate.
- But the electricity supplied by power companies is usually AC.
- A rectifier makes AC usable by changing the direction of current flow so it only flows in one direction (DC).
⚙️ How Rectifiers Work (Basic Idea)
- They use diodes, which allow current to flow only one way.
- When AC voltage swings positive, the diode passes current.
- When AC voltage swings negative, the diode blocks current (or redirects it in full-wave rectifiers).
- This produces a pulsating DC voltage which can be smoothed further with filters.
🧩 Types of Rectifiers
- Type Description Output
- Half-wave rectifier Uses one diode Pulsating DC with gaps
- Full-wave rectifier Uses multiple diodes Pulsating DC with less ripple
- Bridge rectifier Four diodes arranged in a bridge Efficient full-wave rectification
🔧 Application
- Power supplies for electronics (chargers, adapters).
- Converting AC mains power for use in DC circuits.
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