Rectifiers

A rectifier uses a process known as rectification. It achieves this process by converting the alternating current AC into the direct current DC. Rectifiers have many different applications and are used as detectors of radio signals and as components of power supplies. Rectifiers can be manufactured from vacuum tube diodes, mercury arc valves and solid state diodes. A device which performs the exact opposite function converting DC to AC is called an inverter. The main function of a rectifier is to derive DC power from an AC supply. Almost all electronic equipment will need DC power and so rectifiers are to be found in virtually all electronic devices. Other uses include, detection of amplitude modulated radio signals and also supplying polarised voltage for welding.