AC to DC Rectifier Simulation

This simulation shows how a full-wave bridge rectifier converts alternating current into pulsating direct current. The ideal diodes redirect both halves of the AC waveform so that current always passes through the load in the same direction. The rectified voltage is $V_{\text{rectified}} = |V_{\text{in}}|$.

Connect the capacitor to smooth the output voltage. When the source voltage exceeds the capacitor voltage, the capacitor charges and the current is shown in orange. Between voltage peaks, the capacitor discharges through the load and its current is shown in light blue.

The capacitor discharges approximately according to $V(t)=V_0e^{-t/(RC)}$, where $R$ is the load resistance and $C$ is the capacitance. Increasing either $R$ or $C$ increases the time constant $\tau=RC$, causing the voltage to fall more slowly and reducing ripple.

Use the Circuit page to connect or disconnect the capacitor and adjust its capacitance. Use the Load & Speed page to change the load resistance and slow down the animation. The oscilloscope compares the AC input with the rectified output, while the statistics show the average DC voltage and ripple voltage.