Rectifier facts for kids
A rectifier is a device that can convert Alternating current (AC) to Direct current (DC). This is a process called rectification. Rectifiers are made of metals like copper, iron, and silver. They can amplify things, such as sound in a stereo.
Half-wave rectifiers only have one side of a waveform, while the full-wave rectifiers use both sides of a waveform. The left-hand side of the full-wave rectifier circuit consists of four diodes: a diode bridge. Half-wave current is a current that can only flow in alternate current, a full-wave current can flow both alternating current and direct current.
Diode bridge is electrical circuit that consists of four diodes. It acts as a full wave rectifier to convert alternating current to direct current.
Images for kids
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A rectifier diode (silicon controlled rectifier) and associated mounting hardware. The heavy threaded stud attaches the device to a heatsink to dissipate heat.
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Full-wave rectifier, with vacuum tube having two anodes.
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Controlled three-phase half-wave rectifier circuit using thyristors as the switching elements, ignoring supply inductance
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Controlled three-phase full-wave rectifier circuit using thyristors as the switching elements, with a center-tapped transformer, ignoring supply inductance
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Disassembled automobile alternator, showing the six diodes that comprise a full-wave three-phase bridge rectifier.
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Controlled three-phase full-wave bridge rectifier circuit (B6C) using thyristors as the switching elements, ignoring supply inductance. The thyristors pulse in order V1–V6.
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Twelve pulse bridge rectifier using thyristors as the switching elements. One six-pulse bridge consists of the even-numbered thyristors, the other is the odd-numbered set.
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A small motor-generator set
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Tungar bulbs from 1917, 2 ampere (left) and 6 ampere
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Vacuum tube diodes
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Galena cat's whisker detector
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Selenium rectifier
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A variety of silicon diodes of different current ratings. At left is a bridge rectifier. On the 3 center diodes, a painted band identifies the cathode terminal
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Two of three high-power thyristor valve stacks used for long-distance transmission of power from Manitoba Hydro dams. Compare with mercury-arc system from the same dam-site, above.
See also
In Spanish: Rectificador para niños
