(N/A) rectifier is an electrical device that converts alternating current $(AC)$,which periodically reverses direction,to direct current $(DC)$,which flows in only one direction. The process is known as rectification.
There are two main types of rectifiers based on the number of diodes used and the circuit configuration:
$1$. Half-wave rectifier: This type of rectifier uses only one diode. It converts only one half of the $AC$ input cycle into $DC$ output,while the other half is blocked. It is less efficient compared to full-wave rectifiers.
$2$. Full-wave rectifier: This type of rectifier converts both halves of the $AC$ input cycle into $DC$ output. It is further classified into two types:
- Center-tapped full-wave rectifier: Uses two diodes and a center-tapped transformer.
- Bridge rectifier: Uses four diodes arranged in a bridge configuration. It does not require a center-tapped transformer and is more commonly used in practical applications.