⇌ Center Tap Rectifier

Full-wave rectifier using center-tapped transformer — DC output & ripple

How it works: Each half-cycle uses one diode and one half of the secondary winding. Only one diode drop (vs two for bridge). Requires center-tapped transformer with total secondary voltage = 2 × Vs.

Inputs

Secondary Half Voltage (Vs RMS)

AC Frequency (Hz)

Diode Forward Voltage (Vf)

Load Resistance (RL, Ω)

Filter Capacitor (µF)

Peak Voltage (Vm)

—

Vdc (no filter)

—

Vdc (with diode)

—

Ripple Voltage

—

Ripple Frequency

—

Efficiency

—

📐 Formula Reference

Vm = Vs × √2

Vdc = (2 × Vm) / π = 0.636 × Vm

Vdc_actual = Vdc − Vf (only one diode drop)

Ripple Vr ≈ Vdc / (2 × f × C × RL)

Efficiency = 81.2% | Ripple factor = 0.48 | Ripple freq = 2 × f

Advantage over bridge: only 1 diode drop. Disadvantage: needs center-tapped transformer (total secondary = 2×Vs).