Oscilloscope AC/DC Rectifier Problem

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The discussion centers on calculating the error in the quality factor of an AC to DC rectifier, with given DC and AC voltage values. The formula for the quality factor is confirmed, but the user struggles with the correct application, particularly regarding the AC voltage's representation (peak, peak-to-peak, or RMS). Clarification is sought on whether the AC voltage data is correctly interpreted and converted from millivolts to volts. Additionally, there is confusion about the notation of the DC voltage, questioning why it is presented as a range rather than a single value. Accurate unit conversion and understanding of the voltage definitions are crucial for resolving the calculation issue.
Matt21
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Homework Statement


In a AC to DC rectifier the DC signal was Vdc= (6.3+0.4)V and AC signal was Vac=(0.25+0.04)mV. What is the error on the quality factor of the rectifier?

Homework Equations


σQ=√((σr^2)/(Vdc^2 )+(Vr^2 σdc^2)/(Vdc^4 ))

The Attempt at a Solution


I know this is the correct formula and I also know that Vac = Vr. I have tried using this formula in many ways including plugging in the data as it is and converting the Vac data to volts instead of millivolts but it still gives me the wrong answer. For example, when I do that I got error on σQ = 0.000007. Any help as soon as possible would be much appreciated.
 
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It looks to me like your Quality Factor is what others call the Ripple Factor of a rectifier circuit, being the ratio of the AC ripple voltage to the DC output voltage while the circuit is connected to a load.

There are a couple of things to check. First, does your definition of Q use the peak-to-peak AC voltage or the RMS AC voltage, and second, is the given data for the AC voltage peak-to-peak, peak, or RMS? If it's supposedly data read off of an oscilloscope then it's likely either peak or peak-to-peak. So you may have a conversion factor to apply in order to bring your data in line with the definition of Quality you're applying.

Converting from mV to V so that all the units match is correct.
 
Matt21 said:
the DC signal was Vdc= (6.3+0.4)V
I'm wondering what to make of this? Why did they not say Vdc = 6.7V?

Any ideas?
 

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