Bridge rectifier and symmetric power supply

AI Thread Summary
A bridge rectifier converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC) by using four diodes arranged in a bridge configuration, allowing current to flow in one direction regardless of the input polarity. In a symmetric power supply, a center tap transformer provides two equal voltages, enabling the bridge rectifier to produce both positive and negative outputs. The output voltage across the capacitors can reach 1.414 times the secondary voltage of the transformer. Understanding the operation as two full-wave rectifiers can clarify the process. This setup is essential for applications requiring dual polarity power supplies.
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Could some one explain how a bridge rectifier works with a diagram and its mathematics?


Also please explain how a center tap transformer and a bridge rectifier are used to provide a symmetric power supply.
I have the Ckt Diagram for that but I cannot understand its working.

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thanks in advance!
 
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The normal bridge works as shown in the attached diagram. Red diodes are conducting. Just follow the arrows and look at the polarity.
The capacitor will charge up to 1.414 times the full secondary voltage.

normal bridge.PNG


The Symmetric one gives negative and positive voltages.
If you look at it as two full wave rectifiers, it will make more sense.

See attached diagram.

Each capacitor will charge up to 1.414 times half the transformer secondary voltage

bridge.PNG
 
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thanks pal !
 
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