Engineering Theory & Mathematical Model
The simplest AC-to-DC converter uses a single PN junction diode in series with the load. During positive half-cycles above Vf ≈ 0.65V, the diode is forward-biased and conducts; during negative half-cycles, reverse bias widens the depletion zone, reducing leakage current to nanoamps and clamping load voltage at 0V.
Interactive Lab Procedure
- Compare the blue full AC sine wave (CH1) with the amber positive-only rectified pulses (CH2).
- Notice the subtle ~0.68V peak difference between CH1 and CH2 caused by the real Shockley diode drop.
- Grab a Capacitor from the left palette and wire it in parallel with RL to turn this into a filtered half-wave supply!
Technical FAQ
What is the core governing formula for Half-Wave Silicon Diode Rectifier Simulator?
V_avg = (Vp − Vf) / π, V_rms ≈ (Vp − Vf) / 2 — The simplest AC-to-DC converter uses a single PN junction diode in series with the load. During positive half-cycles above Vf ≈ 0.65V, the diode is forward-biased and conducts; during negative half-cycles, reverse bias widens the depletion zone, reducing leakage current to nanoamps and clamping load voltage at 0V.
Can I modify component values and rewire this circuit live?
Yes! The schematic above runs a live MNA SPICE engine. Click any part to adjust parameters, add or delete wires and components, and click Share URL to save your custom topology.