Question

What turns AC to DC?

Answer 1

An **AC to DC** converter is commonly known as a **rectifier**. The purpose of a rectifier is to convert alternating current (AC), which periodically reverses direction, into direct current (DC), which flows in a single direction.

There are different types of rectifiers:

1. **Half-Wave Rectifier**:

   * Uses a single diode to allow only one half (positive or negative) of the AC waveform to pass through, blocking the other half. This results in a pulsating DC output.

2. **Full-Wave Rectifier**:

   * Uses two or more diodes to allow both the positive and negative parts of the AC waveform to be converted into a unidirectional DC output. This type produces smoother DC compared to a half-wave rectifier.

3. **Bridge Rectifier**:

   * A type of full-wave rectifier that uses four diodes arranged in a bridge configuration to convert both halves of the AC waveform into DC. It provides a more efficient and smoother DC output.

After rectification, the DC output is often not perfectly smooth and might require additional components like **filters** (capacitors or inductors) to smooth out the ripples, resulting in a steady DC voltage.

Would you like to know how each of these works in more detail?