AC-DC Power Supply
An AC-DC power supply is a power supply that has the ability to transform one type of power, an alternating current (AC), into another type of power called a direct current (DC). Most people use electrical equipment that requires both forms of electricity on a daily basis.
In the medical and industrial equipment areas, interest in AC-DC power supplies is increasing because these power supplies come with safety clearances and the ability to operate in unreliable situations.
Quick links to AC-DC Power Supply Information
Purpose of an AC-DC Power Supply
An AC-DC power supply's objectives are to:
- Generate and transmit the proper current and voltage values.
- Change the AC power entering homes over power lines into DC power.
- Maintain current flow for applications that require accurate DC voltage.
- Change the AC power into DC without affecting the voltage source or the operation of any connected devices.
How an AC-DC Power Supply Works
The basic configurations of an AC-DC power supply vary with the device, but the core principles remain the same. They consist of the following main components:
- The Transformer
- Steps down the voltage levels of the alternating current entering the device.
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- Rectifiers
- Convert the sinusoidal waveform of the alternating current to the continuous positive peaks of the direct current. Irregularities in the waveform are observed as its phase changes.
- The Filter
- Acts as a capacitor. When the transformed voltage falls below a certain level, the capacitor works as a reservoir of power that can be transmitted to the output. When the voltage increases, the capacitor can store the incoming energy and convert it into output when the voltage decreases. This significantly reduces voltage droop and enhances voltage constancy.
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In summary, an AC-DC power supply converts alternating current into direct current with a smooth output for practical use.
Benefits of an AC-DC Power Supply
- DC power is substantially more useful in the context of voltage distribution, which is why a large number of everyday gadgets, like cellphones, are charged by DC sources.
- All devices' batteries require a DC power source.
- AC power source is cheaper to distribute, but it commonly causes melting wires in residential areas, electrical sparks in appliances, and power surges, all of which can severely harm your devices. An AC-DC power supply addresses these challenges.
- Using an AC-DC power source significantly decreases power instability and wastage.
- Because the high potential of AC power is deadly to consumers if they come into contact with it, an AC-DC power source improves the overall safety of electrical systems.
Applications of AC-DC Power Supplies
- Computers, televisions, cell phone chargers, and other electronic consumer gadgets use AC-DC converters. An AC-DC power supply is also used by medical, military, and telecommunications equipment, as well as domestic appliances, industrial gear, and commercial products that use DC motors.