A full-wave rectifier is a rectification circuit that allows both half-cycles of the AC waveform to pass through, resulting in a smoother DC output. It is more efficient than a half-wave rectifier.
A full-wave rectifier is an electronic circuit that converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). It is called “full-wave” because it rectifies both the positive and negative halves of the input AC waveform. This results in a more continuous and smoother DC output compared to half-wave rectification.
There are two main types of full-wave rectifiers: the center-tap (or bridge) rectifier and the bridge rectifier.
Center-Tap Rectifier: It uses a transformer with a center-tapped secondary winding. The center tap provides two equal halves of the AC waveform, and each half is rectified separately using diodes.
Bridge Rectifier: It uses a four-diode bridge configuration and does not require a center-tapped transformer. The AC input is connected to the four diodes in a bridge arrangement, allowing both halves of the AC waveform to be rectified.
