A converter changes AC voltage into DC voltage using ___.

A converter changes AC voltage into DC voltage using ___.

• A. Diodes
• B. A Chip
• C. Pulse Width Modulators
• D. None of These

Answer: (A)

Rectification converts AC to DC, and diodes do that job because they conduct current in only one direction, blocking the reverse flow. Arrange diodes in a rectifier circuit (like a bridge), and the alternating positive and negative half-cycles of AC are transformed into pulsating DC. This pulsating output can then be smoothed with capacitors and/or inductors to make steady DC. A chip can contain rectifier circuitry, but the fundamental element that actually performs the conversion is the diode. Pulse width modulators regulate or shape DC in switching supplies, not the basic AC-to-DC conversion. So diodes are the correct choice.

Rectification converts AC to DC, and diodes do that job because they conduct current in only one direction, blocking the reverse flow. Arrange diodes in a rectifier circuit (like a bridge), and the alternating positive and negative half-cycles of AC are transformed into pulsating DC. This pulsating output can then be smoothed with capacitors and/or inductors to make steady DC. A chip can contain rectifier circuitry, but the fundamental element that actually performs the conversion is the diode. Pulse width modulators regulate or shape DC in switching supplies, not the basic AC-to-DC conversion. So diodes are the correct choice.