How to Convert AC to DC

Alternating current (AC) is the most efficient way to deliver electrical power. However, most electronic devices need direct current (DC) to function. For this reason, AC to DC converters are either a part of devices themselves or as part of their power cords. If you've built a device you wish to power from an AC outlet, you must add an AC to DC converter.

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Steps

1. 1
   Determine what your AC input voltage is. In North America and parts of Central and South America, the AC voltage at most sockets is 110 to 120 volts at 60 hertz. In Europe, Asia, Australia and most of the Middle East and Africa, it's 230 to 240 volts at 50 hertz. The standard in other areas may differ.
   
   
   
2. 2
   Find the voltage and amperage needed to power the components of your electronic device. Check the manufacturer's instructions, if necessary. Too much of either amperage or voltage will destroy the components, while too little will not allow the device to work correctly. Most have a safe range; aim for the center so your input power can vary somewhat.
   
   
   
3. 3
   Use a transformer to step down the output from high-voltage AC to low-voltage AC. Electrical current enters the primary coil of the transformer and induces a current in the secondary coil, which has fewer coils, resulting in a lower voltage. Little power is lost in this process because the amperage increases in relation to the decrease in voltage.
   
   
   
4. 4
   Run the low-voltage AC through a rectifier. A rectifier usually consists of 4 diodes arranged in a diamond shape -- a type called a bridge rectifier. A diode only allows current to pass in 1 direction; the diamond configuration allow 2 diodes to pass the positive half of the current and the other 2 diodes to pass the negative half. The output of both sets is a current that climbs from 0 volts to the maximum positive voltage.
   
   
   
5. 5
   Add a large electrolytic capacitor to smooth out the voltage. A capacitor stores an electrical charge for a short time and then releases it slowly. The input from the rectifier resembles a string of humps; the output of the smoother is a somewhat steady voltage with ripples.
   
   
   
   • For devices that only need a low current, you can create a regulator with a resistor and a zener diode, which is designed to break down when a certain voltage is reached, allowing current to pass through it. The resistor limits the current.
     
     
     
6. 6
   Pass the output of the smoother through a regulator. This smooths out the ripples and creates a very steady current that will operate your electronic device without damaging it. Regulators are integrated circuits and can either have fixed or variable output voltages.
   
   
   
   • Although regulators include protection against excessive current and heat, yours may still require that you attach a heat sink to keep it from becoming too hot.

Tips

• Alternating current includes both positive and negative voltages that rise and fall like in a smooth sine wave(sinusoidal wave). It can carry energy faster and farther without losing energy.
• If you don't want to build your own AC to DC converter, you can buy one.

Warnings

• Working with electricity can be dangerous. Take precautions against coming in direct contact with electricity.

Things You'll Need

• AC power cord
• Circuit board
• Soldering iron
• Pliers and snips
• Step-down transformer
• Diodes
• Electrolytic capacitor or resistor and zener diode
• Regulator