Can a Single Rectifier Keep an LED Constantly On?

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In summary, connecting an LED to a single rectifier will cause it to pulsate at 60 Hz, which is not visible to the human eye. A bridge or full wave rectifier, on the other hand, will produce 120 Hz from a 60 Hz supply and result in a brighter output. Adding a capacitor across the rectifier's output will create a steady DC voltage and increase the LED's brightness. Without the capacitor, the LED will only receive high current pulses to appear bright.
  • #1
tobi101
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If an LED is connected to a single rectifier, resulting in a half wave, will this cause the LED to pulsate?!
I no a bridge-rectifier will work and is more efficient to keep the LED constantly on but can a single rectifier work?
thanks
 
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Yes, it does pulsate, but it is still at 60 Hz so you can't see it. A bridge or full wave rectifier gives 120 Hz from a 60 Hz supply.

You can add a capacitor across the output of the rectifier and get a steady DC voltage. This is worth doing and results in brighter output.

Without the capacitor (maybe 1000 uF) the LED has to get high current pulses to appear bright.
 

What are LED's and a single rectifier?

LED's (light-emitting diodes) are semiconductor devices that emit light when an electric current passes through them. A single rectifier is a device that converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC).

How do LED's and a single rectifier work together?

The single rectifier converts the AC current to DC, which is required for LED's to function. LED's then use the DC current to emit light.

What are the advantages of using a single rectifier with LED's?

The use of a single rectifier ensures that the correct type of current is supplied to the LED's, which ensures their efficient operation. It also simplifies the circuitry needed to power the LED's.

Can LED's be used without a single rectifier?

Yes, LED's can be powered by batteries or other sources of direct current without the use of a single rectifier. However, for most applications, a single rectifier is necessary to convert the AC current from the power source to DC.

What are some common applications of LED's and a single rectifier?

LED's and a single rectifier are commonly used in various electronic devices, such as televisions, computers, and lighting fixtures. They are also used in automotive lighting and in outdoor signs and displays.

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