What does a rectifier do in LV equipment?

• A. Converts DC to AC
• B. Converts AC to DC
• C. Stores energy
• D. Provides isolation

Answer: (B)

A rectifier’s job is to convert alternating current into direct current. In low-voltage equipment, the power from the mains is AC, but most electronic circuits need DC. The rectifier uses diodes arranged to conduct on one direction only, turning both halves of the AC waveform into a unidirectional current. That DC is typically smoothed (and sometimes regulated) to provide a stable supply for the electronics. The other options describe different functions—DC to AC is done by an inverter, storing energy is a job for batteries or capacitors, and isolation is provided by a transformer or similar device. So the action of converting AC to DC is the correct description.