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How to Build a High-Power Bridge Rectifier

Diodes are devices used to convert alternating current (AC) power to direct current (DC) power. A bridge rectifier is a special type of rectifier designed to convert an entire AC signal to DC. This process is called full-wave conversion. High-power bridge rectifiers use high-power diodes designed to operate at high voltage and current. These types of devices are good for automobile battery chargers and high power power supplies. Constructing a high-power bridge rectifier is a simple project that can be used in school or education labs.

Things You'll Need

4-high power diodes

Instructions

- 1
  Label each of the four diodes D1, D2, D3 and D4. Each diode has a positive terminal and a negative terminal. These terminals are usually short wires attached to the diode.
- 2
  Connect the positive terminal of D1 to the negative terminal of D2. This can be done by twisting these two diode wires together. Then, connect the positive terminal of D3 to the negative terminal of D4. Label these two pairs of wires as "Out1" and "Out2." These two splices are important because these two pairs of wire form the output of the rectifier.
- 3
  Connect the negative terminal of D1 to the negative terminal of D3. This forms splice "A." Then, connect the positive terminal of D2 to the positive terminal of D4. This forms splice "B." Input voltage from the power source is supplied to splices "A" and "B."

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