What is the purpose of converting AC voltage to DC voltage?

What is the purpose of converting AC voltage to DC voltage?

The purpose of converting AC voltage to DC voltage is mainly to adapt to those electronic devices and circuits that require a stable DC power supply. AC voltage (AC) is a voltage that changes periodically, while DC voltage (DC) is a constant voltage. Many electronic devices, such as computers, mobile phone chargers, LED lighting, etc., require DC power to work. Here are a few common purposes and examples of converting AC voltage to DC voltage:

Aim

• Power electronics: Most portable electronic devices use DC power internally, so the alternating current provided by the grid needs to be converted to direct current.

• Power adapter: The power adapter in household appliances usually includes circuits such as rectification, filtering, etc., to convert the alternating current of the home grid into the required direct current.

• Battery charger: Battery chargers usually need to convert alternating current to direct current to charge the battery.

• Regulated power supply: In laboratory and industrial environments, regulated power supplies need to provide a stable DC voltage to test or drive circuits.

• Communication equipment: Communication equipment such as telephone switches, data center servers, etc., require a reliable DC power supply to maintain continuous operation.

• Motor drive: Some types of electric motors (such as DC motors) require DC power to work, so alternating current needs to be converted to direct current.

Living example 

• Cell phone charger: When you use a cell phone charger, it converts the AC voltage provided by the home outlet into the low-voltage DC voltage required by the cell phone battery.

• Computer Power supply: The power supply (PSU) in a computer converts AC voltage to DC voltage for use by components such as the motherboard, hard disk, and display.

• Automotive power conversion: The generator in the car generates alternating current, which is converted to direct current by the on-board regulator and stored in the battery for use by the automotive electronic system.

• Solar system: The direct current generated by solar photovoltaic panels can be converted into alternating current for home use by inverters, and can also be stored through battery management systems.

• Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) : When the mains is normal, the UPS converts alternating current into direct current and stores it in the battery. When the mains is interrupted, the direct current is converted back to alternating current to supply the load.

In short, the conversion of AC voltage to DC voltage is one of the foundations of modern electronic technology, which enables various devices to work properly on the basis of AC power provided by the grid.