Enter the input AC voltage to the bridge rectifier to determine the approximate output DC voltage. This calculator accounts for the voltage drop across the diodes in the rectifier.
Bridge Rectifier Output Voltage Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the output DC voltage of a bridge rectifier.
Vdc = Vrms * √2 - 2 * Vd
Variables:
- Vdc is the output DC voltage
- Vrms is the input AC voltage (root mean square voltage)
- Vd is the forward voltage drop across each diode (typically 0.7V for silicon diodes)
To calculate the output DC voltage, multiply the input AC voltage by the square root of 2 and then subtract the voltage drop across two diodes (2 * Vd).
What is a Bridge Rectifier?
A bridge rectifier is an electrical circuit consisting of four diodes arranged in a bridge configuration that converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). It is widely used in power supply units where a stable DC voltage is required. The bridge rectifier is preferred over other types of rectifiers due to its ability to provide full-wave rectification and higher output voltage.
How to Calculate Bridge Rectifier Output Voltage?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Bridge Rectifier Output Voltage.
- First, determine the input AC voltage (Vrms) supplied to the bridge rectifier.
- Next, consider the typical forward voltage drop across each diode (Vd), which is usually around 0.7V for silicon diodes.
- Use the formula Vdc = Vrms * √2 – 2 * Vd to calculate the output DC voltage (Vdc).
- Finally, calculate the Bridge Rectifier Output Voltage (Vdc).
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Input AC voltage (Vrms) = 120V
Forward voltage drop across each diode (Vd) = 0.7V
Output DC voltage (Vdc) = ?
