Basic Concept:

Bridge rectifiers are essential for any electronic equipment which requires full wave rectification of an AC power source. The bridge rectifier is comprised of four separate rectifier components configured into a "bridge" arrangement in a single package.

A frequent use of rectifiers has been to redirect or steer current flow in one direction for dc requirements. With an alternating ac current source, this is easily accomplished with a rectifier bridge or center-tap dual rectifiers after the desired rms source voltage is achieved with a transformer.

In some applications, individual rectifiers and half bridges or center-tap rectifiers may offer greater options in selective performance features not found in available bridge assemblies. These include high frequency applications requiring ultrafast rectifier components or Schottky rectifiers for minimal parasitic losses in low voltage applications.

Other basic performance features that deserve consideration for rectifier bridges relative to their individual rectifier components are the average output current Io thermal performance needed to achieve this rating, and package isolation for ease of mounting.

Surface Mount Devices

Lead Devices