The Graetz Bridge #
A full-wave bridge rectifier using 4 diodes to convert AC to DC. The most common rectification method.
How It Works #
- Positive half-cycle: D1 and D3 conduct
- Negative half-cycle: D2 and D4 conduct
- Current through the load always flows in the same direction
Output voltage: \(V_{out} \approx |V_{in}| - 2V_D\) (voltage drop across 2 diodes ≈ 1.4V)
With Capacitor Filter #
A capacitor in parallel smooths the output. Larger capacitor → smaller ripple → more stable DC.
DC average voltage (without filter): \(V_{DC} = \frac{2 V_{max}}{\pi} - 2V_D\)
Applications #
Power supplies, chargers, AC/DC converters — present in nearly every device plugged into a wall socket.
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