Rectifier: meaning, definitions and examples
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rectifier
[ ˈrɛktɪfaɪər ]
electrical device
A rectifier is an electrical device that converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). This conversion is essential in numerous applications, particularly in power supplies for electronic devices. Rectifiers can be simple devices that use diodes, or more complex setups that involve additional components to improve efficiency and performance. They are widely used in various industries, including telecommunications, automation, and consumer electronics.
Synonyms
converter, transformer, transformer-rectifier
Examples of usage
- The rectifier in my computer's power supply ensures stable operation.
- Engineers designed a rectifier for the new solar panel system.
- The musician used a rectifier circuit to power his electric guitar.
- Replacing the faulty rectifier solved the issue with the lights flickering.
Translations
Translations of the word "rectifier" in other languages:
🇵🇹 retificador
🇮🇳 सुधारक
🇩🇪 Gleichrichter
🇮🇩 penyempurna
🇺🇦 випрямляч
🇵🇱 prostownik
🇯🇵 整流器
🇫🇷 redresseur
🇪🇸 rectificador
🇹🇷 doğrultucu
🇰🇷 정류기
🇸🇦 موحد
🇨🇿 usměrňovač
🇸🇰 usmerňovač
🇨🇳 整流器
🇸🇮 usmerjevalnik
🇮🇸 réttari
🇰🇿 түзеткіш
🇬🇪 გამართებელი
🇦🇿 düzəldici
🇲🇽 rectificador
Word origin
The term 'rectifier' originates from the Latin word 'rectus,' meaning 'right' or 'straight,' which alludes to the device's function of converting curved waveforms of alternating current into a straight line of direct current. Initially documented in electrical engineering in the late 19th century, rectifiers became increasingly important with the advent of electrical utilities and the need to convert AC, prevalent in electrical grid systems, into DC for various applications. The introduction of semiconductor technology in the 20th century significantly improved rectifier efficiency and allowed for more compact designs. Today, rectifiers are essential components in a myriad of electronic and electrical systems.