AC to DC

[Traceyhardy]

I am in need of a simple schematic to convert ac to dc. How does this work?

 

[dknguyen]

Diode Rectifier -> Capacitor to smooth out gaps -> Zener diode to chop voltage.

 

[Papabravo]

I am in need of a simple schematic to convert ac to dc. How does this work?

It starts with a transformer. It would help if you could provide more detail.

 

[Russlk]

All that is needed is a diode which only allows current to flow in one direction. If you are working off the mains, a transformer is needed for isolation and to reduce the voltage to what you need. The diode will produce pulsating DC but if you want smooth DC, a filter cap is needed. The size of the cap can be estimated from this equation:

C = (load current)*(time between pulses)/(voltage ripple)

 

[SeanHatch]

What will this DC voltage supply?

 

[audioguru]

Diode Rectifier -> Capacitor to smooth out gaps -> Zener diode to chop voltage.

A zener diode without a current-limiting resistor is a smoke machine, not a chopper.

 

[dknguyen]

Well, yeah, but that's something he would come by through more research of what the arrow diagram actually meant.