Rectifier

Where are rectifiers used?

A rectifier is an electrical component used to convert alternating current into direct current. Therefore it is an integral component of power transformers which convert alternating current of domestic electricity into direct current usable by plugged in appliances.

Which versions of rectifiers are available?

One Way Rectifiers

The very first component released in this category was the one way rectifier. The incoming oscillation is split into two half waves. One of the two half waves will be faded. Generally this worked well for a long time but there are still some disadvantages of doing it this way. Because of the fading of 50% of the incoming current, one way rectifiers significantly lower the efficiency of the power supply. Another disadvantage is a highly asymmetrical load of the one way rectifier as well as the devices connected to it. Therefore this electric component nowadays is regarded as being outdated and with exception of flyback transformers it is not being used any more.

Two Way Rectifiers

The difference between one way and two way rectifiers is that the two way rectifier does not fade but "positives" the lower half wave and basically folds it upward. This provides a number of advantages for the consumers:

• Avoiding high pulse rates
• Improvement of efficiency

Generally this type of rectifier is made out of four diodes. They are all powered at the same time and then transfer the power offset by a half wave. This creates another pulsing voltage frequency which in contrast to the one way rectifier does not take a half wave break in between. These electrical components are set up in control components on a rectifier top hat rail. The standardized size of the top hat rail and the components allow a simplified and easy installation. The name of this carrier system is Din Rail.