What is the device used for converting AC to DC called?

What is the device used for converting AC to DC called?

 The device used for converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) is called a rectifier. A rectifier is an electrical device that converts alternating current (AC), which periodically reverses direction, into direct current (DC), which flows in only one direction. The process is known as rectification.

  Rectifiers have many uses in a variety of electrical appliances, electronics and technology sectors. Their most notable use is in power supplies where they convert the AC voltage into a steady DC voltage. They are also commonly used in electronic devices such as radios and televisions to detect the audio and video signals from radio and television broadcasts. Rectifiers are fundamentally crucial for several gadgets, devices and appliances that rely on DC for their operations. Since most households, offices, industries, etc., receive AC power supply, it becomes necessary to convert the same into DC for these DC-based appliances to work. The working of a rectifier revolves around a diode, a device that allows current to pass in only one direction. In a full-wave rectifier, both the positive and negative halves of the AC cycle are utilised, converting the entire input waveform to one of constant polarity (positive or negative) at its output by flipping the negative portions of the AC waveform to positive. Rectifiers are an integral part of power supplies and are widely used in several other applications. To further smooth out the waveform from the rectifier and make it a perfect DC signal, a filter (typically a capacitor) is used after the rectifier in a power supply circuit. It's a continuous and fascinating process that drives most of our modern electronics, enabling AC supply to be utilised effectively for devices and gadgets that require DC supply. Thus, rectifiers are indispensable for their role in electronic systems. While it may not be a familiar name to most people, this device contributes significantly to our daily lives by powering electronic gadgets and appliances we use every day, from laptops and televisions to various medical devices.

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