INTRODUCTION

In electronics, rectifiers assume a pivotal role by transforming the oscillating nature of

alternating current (AC) into the steadfast stream of direct current (DC). This conversion
holds profound significance for numerous electronic devices and systems that necessitate a
consistent and unswerving flow of electric current. The versatile applications of rectifiers
span from powering electronic devices to signals in communication systems.

A rectifier serves the fundamental purpose of converting AC voltage, ensuring that the current
moves in a singular direction. The execution of this conversion is orchestrated through the
deployment of semiconductor devices, with diodes playing a central role. The classification
of rectifiers hinges on the circuit configuration and methodology, leading to the distinction
between two primary types: half-wave rectifiers and full-wave rectifiers.

1. Half-Wave Rectifiers

Half-wave rectifiers allow only one-half of the AC input cycle to pass through, effectively
producing pulsating DC output. While simple in design, half-wave rectifiers are not as
efficient when compared to their full-wave counterparts. The rectification process occurs
during either the positive or negative half of the AC cycle.

2. Full-Wave Rectifiers

Full-wave rectifiers rectify both halves of the AC input cycle, resulting in a smoother DC
output compared to half-wave rectifiers. There are two classifications of full-wave rectifiers:
Bridge rectifiers and centre-tap (or bridge) rectifiers. Bridge rectifiers use four diodes
configured in a bridge arrangement, while centre-tap rectifiers utilize a transformer with a
centre-tapped secondary winding.

Rectifiers find applications in diverse fields, including power electronics,

telecommunications, and control systems. They are integral to the functioning of power
supplies in electronic devices, ensuring reliable DC power.

Rectifiers are essential components in electronic circuits, converting alternating current into
direct current to meet the power requirements of various devices. Understanding the different
types of rectifiers and their applications is crucial for engineers and enthusiasts working in
electronics and electrical systems.
 AIM
To study Half Wave and Full Wave Rectifier Circuits

1. Design the circuit diagram.

2. Take the reading and draw the input & output waveform.
3. Determine the output voltage with filter circuit across load (RL).

APPARATUS REQUIRED
Sl.no. Components Numbers Required

1. Digital multi-meter 1

2. Cathode Ray Oscilloscope 1

3. Power Supply 4
4. Resistor 1
5. Capacitor 1
6. Transformer 1
 THEORY
Half Wave Rectifier

The Half Wave Rectifier functions as a circuit that transforms alternating voltage into direct
voltage. In the illustrated circuit, the transformer serves dual purposes, playing a crucial l role
in shaping the system.

Figure 1. Circuit Diagram of Half Wave Rectifier

Firstly, the transformer plays a crucial role in making direct current (DC) voltage to meet
specific requirements. This customization is achieved through the utilization of either step-up
or step-down transformers. Additionally, the transformer provides a vital function in isolating
the circuit from the power line, thereby boosting safety and stability.

The primary connection of the transformer to the alternating current (AC) supply induces a
varying voltage across the secondary coil. During the positive half-cycle of the input voltage,
the voltage polarity across the secondary actively biases the diode in a forward direction.
Consequently, a current (IL) flows through the load resistor (RL).

The forward-biased diode exhibits minimal resistance, resulting in a negligible voltage drop
across the diode. Consequently, the voltage across the load remains virtually identical to the
input voltage at all times.

In contrast, during the negative half-cycle of the input voltage, the polarity of the secondary
voltage reverses. This reverse biasing of the diode impedes the current flow through the
circuit, leading to almost no voltage development across the resistor. Essentially, the entirety
of the input voltage manifests across the diode during this phase.

In summary, during the positive half-cycle of the input voltage, the output voltage closely
mirrors the input voltage. However, during the negative half-cycle of the circuit, no voltage is
available across the load. This phenomenon gives rise to the unidirectional pulsating direct
current waveform observed at the output. Half-wave rectification is the term used to describe
the process of extracting half of the input signal to establish a DC level.

Full Wave Rectifier

Centre Tapped Transformer

The utilization of a Centre Tapped Transformer is integral to the operation of a Full Wave
Rectifier circuit. This circuit effectively transforms an alternating voltage into a pulsating
direct voltage by leveraging both halves of the applied alternating voltage.

Figure 2. Circuit Diagram of Centre Tapped Full Wave Rectifier

In this configuration, two diodes come into play, each conducting during a specific half cycle
of the applied alternating voltage. In the positive half cycle, diode D1 becomes forward
biased, allowing it to conduct, while D2 becomes reverse biased and remains inactive.
Consequently, the load current flows through D1, and the voltage drop across RL equals the
input voltage.

Conversely, in the negative half cycle of the input voltage, the roles of the diodes reverse. D1
becomes reverse biased, and D2 becomes forward biased. This time, D2 conducts while D1
stays in the OFF state. This ensures a continuous and efficient conversion process,
contributing to the rectification of the alternating voltage.

Bridge Rectifier

Introducing the Full Wave Bridge Rectifier, a circuit that mirrors the output waveform of the
previously discussed full wave rectifier circuit. This single-phase rectifier employs four
individual rectifying diodes arranged in a closed-loop "bridge" configuration to generate the
desired output. Notably, this bridge circuit eliminates the need for a specialized centre-tapped
transformer, resulting in a reduction in both size and cost.

Figure 3. Circuit Diagram of Bridge Rectifier

The single secondary winding connects to one side of the diode bridge network, with the load
connected to the other side, as illustrated in the accompanying figure.

In this setup, the four diodes (D1 to D4) operate in "series pairs," with only two diodes
conducting current during each half cycle. During the positive half cycle of the power supply,
diodes D1 and D2 conduct in series, while D3 and D4 remain reverse biased. This causes the
current to flow through the load.

Conversely, during the negative half cycle of the supply, diodes D3 and D4 conduct in series,
while D1 and D2 switch "OFF" due to being reverse biased. Despite this change, the current
flowing through the load maintains the same direction as before, ensuring a seamless
operation.
 PROCEDURE
Half Wave Rectifier

1. Take the Supply of 5V rms Sinusoidal wave from the secondary side of the
transformer in the with a frequency of 50Hz.
2. Put the DSO probes at input and sketch the input waveform obtained.
3. Construct the circuit as shown in Figure 1.
4. Put the Oscilloscope probes across the resistor and sketch the output waveform
obtained.
5. Measure and Record the DC level of the output voltage.