What is the most basic AC-to-DC converter?
A half-wave rectifier.
What is a diode?
A diode is an electronic one-way valve for current – it allows current to flow in one direction but blocks it in the opposite direction.
What is a capacitor?
A capacitor is an electrical energy storage device (it stores charge). It acts like a temporary battery in that when a voltage is applied, the capacitor charges up to that voltage.
What are negative currents?
Currents that flow in the opposite direction to the defined positive reference direction.
What are negative voltages?
Voltages that are below the reference point, typically ground, indicating a potential difference in the opposite direction.
What does rectified mean?
ectified’ means the negative portion of the AC waveform has been removed or flipped, leaving an output that is unidirectional (only positive). The result is a form of DC, though a very pulsating one (not steady).
How much voltage does a capacitor hold?
It charges up to whatever voltage is applied across it (the capacitor’s voltage will match the source voltage at full charge).
In what configuration is the load connected with the capacitor?
In parallel with the capacitor.
What is voltage ripple with a capacitor?
Voltage ripple is the small variation in the DC output voltage due to the capacitor charging and discharging. In other words, it’s the peak-to-valley voltage swing that remains on the DC output as the capacitor supplies the load between rectifier pulses.
What are the steps in AC-to-DC conversion?
Transform: Get to the right voltage
Rectification: Get the signal positive
Smoothing: Reduce the push–pause–push using a capacitor
Regulation: Set the output voltage to the desired level and eliminate remaining ripple
What is XFRM in a block diagram?
XFRM stands for transformer, which is used to change voltage levels in AC-to-DC conversion.
What does AC/DC mean in a block diagram?
AC/DC refers to the conversion process from alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC).
