BrückengleichrichterModule

Brückengleichrichter, or bridge rectifier, is an arrangement of four diodes connected in a bridge configuration that converts alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC). Two opposite corners of the diamond are connected to the AC source, and the remaining corners provide the DC output. The circuit performs full-wave rectification, producing a pulsating DC that can be smoothed with a filter capacitor or regulated for use in electronic power supplies.

Operation proceeds as the AC input alternates. In one half-cycle, current flows through two diodes to the positive output and returns through the opposite path, while in the next half-cycle the other pair of diodes conducts, keeping the output polarity the same. This results in a unidirectional voltage at the output despite the AC input. The forward voltage drop, typically about 0.7 V per silicon diode, yields roughly 1.4 V of drop in a standard arrangement; using Schottky diodes lowers this drop.

Applications and variants: the brick-shaped device is commonly used in single-phase power supplies to provide DC for regulation and filtering. It can be implemented with discrete diodes or as an integrated module rated for a given current and peak inverse voltage (PIV). Variants include three-phase bridge rectifiers, which use six diodes, and controlled bridges that employ thyristors for adjustable output. The bridge’s main advantages are efficient utilization of transformer windings and improved ripple reduction over half-wave rectification; drawbacks include diode losses, heat generation, and the need for adequate cooling at higher currents.

In summary, the Brückengleichrichter is a foundational circuit in converting AC to DC, widely used in consumer electronics and power supplies.