A rectifier is an electronic circuit used to convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). Both full-wave rectifiers and bridge rectifiers are types of rectifier circuits, but they differ in their configurations and the way they convert AC to DC.
- Full-Wave Rectifier: A full-wave rectifier is a rectifier circuit that utilizes both halves of the input AC waveform. It converts the entire AC input cycle into DC output. There are two common types of full-wave rectifiers: center-tapped and bridge-type.
Center-Tapped Full-Wave Rectifier: In this configuration, a center-tapped transformer is used along with two diodes. The center tap of the transformer connects to the ground or reference point. The AC input is applied across the two ends of the secondary winding, and the two diodes conduct alternately, allowing current to flow in one direction during each half of the input cycle. As a result, the output is a pulsating DC waveform with a frequency twice that of the input AC frequency.
Bridge-Type Full-Wave Rectifier: This configuration uses a bridge rectifier circuit composed of four diodes arranged in a bridge-like pattern. The AC input is applied to the diagonally opposite corners of the bridge, and the output is taken from the other two corners. The diodes conduct alternately, allowing current to flow through the load in the same direction during both halves of the input cycle. The output of a bridge rectifier is also a pulsating DC waveform with a frequency twice that of the input AC frequency.
- Bridge Rectifier: A bridge rectifier is a type of full-wave rectifier circuit. It is a compact configuration that does not require a center-tapped transformer. It consists of four diodes arranged in a bridge pattern, hence the name "bridge rectifier." The AC input is applied to the diagonally opposite corners of the bridge, and the output is taken from the other two corners. The diodes in the bridge rectifier conduct alternately during each half of the input cycle, allowing current to flow in the same direction through the load. This results in a more efficient conversion of AC to DC compared to a center-tapped full-wave rectifier.
In summary, the main difference between a full-wave rectifier and a bridge rectifier lies in their configurations. A full-wave rectifier can be either a center-tapped or bridge-type circuit, while a bridge rectifier specifically refers to the bridge-type configuration. The bridge rectifier eliminates the need for a center-tapped transformer, making it more compact and efficient for converting AC to DC.