The Different Types Of Rectifiers In Telecommunications

Rectifiers are used in a variety of devices and can be applied to modify network systems. They are categorised in different ways dependent on factors such as type of supply, bridge configuration and components used. On the whole, rectifiers can be classified into two types – single phase and three phase. Drilling down another level, they can then be separated into half wave, full wave and bridge rectifiers.

What is a Rectifier?

Before we get into the different types of rectifiers, it is worth going over what rectifiers are. A rectifier is a diode which converts alternating current (known as AC) to direct current (DC). DC only flows in one direction whereas AC regularly reverses direction. Rectifiers allow current to flow in a single direction.

Rectifiers take alternating voltage and converts it into high quality direct voltage needed for your telecom equipment. Traditional telecommunications equipment generally requires DC input power but mains power runs off AC. Such power systems consist of multiple rectifiers that convert AC power to DC power, so they can operate.

Without the right rectifier, there is little chance of configuring your ideal system. They are the heart of a power system as they offer optimised solutions for each application. Using rectifiers means that you can tailor your power system without having to rebuild every element.

The Different Types of Rectifiers

So, it is clear that rectifiers are a key component to any network system but we need to dip deeper to understand the carious types. Depending on the situation, different rectifiers are used conditional to the system it is used in. The top two levels are single phase and three phase, which indicate how many diodes are used in the circuit. Then we come to half wave, full wave and bridge rectifiers, which affect what half cycles are produced. Let’s go into each type to better understand what rectifier should be used.