Full-Wave Rectifier

A full-wave rectifier inverts the negative half of the AC cycle, producing pulses for BOTH halves.

Two common topologies: (i) Centre-tapped transformer with 2 diodes; (ii) bridge rectifier with 4 diodes (no centre tap).

Output frequency = 2× input frequency (100 Hz from 50 Hz mains).

Average (DC) output: V_dc = 2V_m/π ≈ 0.637 V_m. DOUBLE that of half-wave.

RMS: V_rms = V_m/√2.

Ripple factor: γ ≈ 0.482 — much better than half-wave's 1.21.

Efficiency: ~81.2% — twice half-wave.

PIV: 2V_m for centre-tap; V_m for bridge. Bridge is preferred because diode rating is half — but uses 4 diodes.

Combined with a filter capacitor and (optionally) a voltage regulator, you get a usable DC supply.