Oscilloscope AC/DC Rectifier Problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the error in the quality factor (Q) of an AC to DC rectifier, specifically using the formula σQ=√((σr^2)/(Vdc^2 )+(Vr^2 σdc^2)/(Vdc^4 )). The user encountered difficulties in obtaining the correct error value, initially calculating σQ as 0.000007. Key points include the importance of understanding whether the AC voltage (Vac) is expressed in peak, peak-to-peak, or RMS values, as this affects the calculation of the quality factor. Additionally, the user noted a discrepancy in the representation of the DC voltage, questioning why it was not simply stated as Vdc = 6.7V.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of AC to DC rectification processes
  • Familiarity with quality factor calculations in electrical engineering
  • Knowledge of voltage measurement units (mV vs. V)
  • Proficiency in using oscilloscope data for circuit analysis
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the differences between peak, peak-to-peak, and RMS voltage measurements
  • Study the ripple factor in rectifier circuits and its significance
  • Learn about error propagation in electrical measurements
  • Explore the use of oscilloscopes for accurate voltage readings in rectifier circuits
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and professionals involved in power electronics and rectification processes will benefit from this discussion.

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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