Full wave rectifier (Definition and Working)

A device that converts both polarities (positive and negative) of input AC into output DC is know as Full Wave Rectifier. OR

A rectifier that converts complete cycle of input AC into output DC is known as Full-wave Rectifier.

Full Wave Rectifier (Circuit Diagram and Output)

 When the positive half cycle comes, then upper end ‘A’ of secondary winding becomes positive and lower end ‘B’ becomes negative while central point ‘G’ remains at zero potential. In this condition the diode D1 is forward biased and conducts, while the diode D2 is reversed biased and switched to OFF condition and doesn't conduct.

Conventional current travels from point ‘A’ through diode D1 and reaches center tap point ‘G’ of transformer, Hence during positive half cycle D1 is ON and D2 remains OFF. (As shown in figure1)

Figure 1 (Output of Diode D1)

 When the negative half cycle comes, then upper point ‘A’ of secondary winding becomes negative and lower point ‘B’ becomes positive while central point ‘G’ remains at zero potentioal. In this condition, the diode D2 conducts because it is forward biased and the diode D1 is reverse biased and doesn’t conduct.

Conventional current travels from point ‘B’ towards load and reaches the center taps point ‘G’ of secondary winding. Hence, during negative half cycle D1 is Off and D2 is ON. (As shown in figure 2).