Rectifier definition

A rectifier is a device which converts sinusoidal AC (alternating current) voltage into pulsating DC (Direct Current) voltage. The single phase rectifiers are classified basically into two types that are half wave rectifier and full wave rectifier. Half wave rectifiers are those which convert one-half cycle of AC voltage into DC voltage, while full wave rectifiers are those which utilize positive half cycle as well as the negative half cycle for generation of pulsating DC voltage. Circuit Components of Rectifiers In our previous article, we have discussed diodes and their types. A question emerges in this context that why diode is considered as the backbone of various electronic devices and circuits? What is the significance of diode? The answers to these question will be clear in this article of rectifiers. So far we have discussed working of diode but now we will see its practical utility. Rectifier’s main component is diode. The conversion process of AC signal into DC signal is performed by rectifier with the help of diode only. The ability of the diode to conduct in forward biased and to act as an open circuit on reversed biased makes it appropriate for switching between the positive half cycle of the signal and negative half cycle of the signal. Thus, the diode is a crucial component of the rectifier. Rectifiers may contain one, two, three or four diodes according to the requirement for a particular purpose. Significance of Rectifier We have already discussed above th...

ICT (Information and Communications Technology) is the use of computing and telecommunication technologies, systems and tools to facilitate the way information is created, collected, processed, transmitted and stored. It includes computing technologies like servers, computers, software applications and database management systems (DBMSs)... • • Trending Terms A rectifier can take the shape of several different physical forms such as solid-state diodes, vacuum tube diodes, mercury arc valves, silicon-controlled rectifiers and various other silicon-based semiconductor switches. Rectifiers are used in various devices, including: • DC power supplies • Radio signals or detectors • A source of power instead of generating current • High-voltage direct current power transmission systems • Several household appliances use power rectifiers to create power, like notebooks or laptops, video game systems and televisions. Techopedia Explains Rectifier A rectifier is an electrical device that converts AC to DC. AC regularly reverses direction, while DC flows in one direction only. Rectification produces a type of DC that encompasses active voltages and currents, which are then adjusted into a type of constant voltage DC, although this varies depending on the current’s end use. The current is allowed to flow uninterrupted in one direction, and no current is allowed to flow in the opposite direction. Almost all rectifiers contain more than one diode in particular arrangements. A rectifier ...