AC to DC Power Conversion Calculator
Convert AC voltage, current, and power to DC equivalents with efficiency considerations
Common AC voltages:
Silicon: 0.7V, Schottky: 0.3V
Formulas Used
• VDC = VAC(RMS) / √2 ≈ VAC × 0.707
• VDC(actual) = VDC - (Diode Drop × Number of Diodes)
• PDC = PAC × Efficiency
• Power Loss = PAC × (1 - Efficiency)
• IDC = IAC × √2 ≈ IAC × 1.414
• (For equivalent power transfer)
DC Voltage Output DC Power Output DC Current
V DC W A
Theoretical: V (before diode losses)
DC Voltage
V
DC Power
W
DC Current
A
Power Loss
W
Lost as heat
Efficiency Breakdown
Common AC to DC Conversions
| AC Input | Theoretical DC | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 120V AC (US) | ~85V DC | DC power supplies |
| 230V AC (EU) | ~163V DC | Industrial equipment |
| 12V AC | ~8.5V DC | LED lighting |
| 24V AC | ~17V DC | HVAC controls |
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About AC to DC Power Conversion Calculator
What is AC to DC Power Conversion?
AC to DC power conversion is the process of transforming Alternating Current (AC) into Direct Current (DC). This conversion is essential for powering electronics, charging batteries, and running DC motors from AC power sources.
How This Calculator Works
- Select Conversion Mode: Choose what you want to convert (Voltage, Power, or Current)
- Enter AC Values: Input your AC voltage, current, or power values
- Set Efficiency: Adjust the converter efficiency (default 85%)
- Get DC Results: View the converted DC values with detailed breakdown
Key Conversion Formulas
Voltage Conversion
- Theoretical: V_DC = V_AC(RMS) / √2 ≈ V_AC × 0.707
- With Losses: V_DC(actual) = V_DC(theoretical) - Diode Drop
Power Conversion
- P_DC = P_AC × Efficiency
- Where efficiency (η) = P_out / P_in
Current Conversion
- I_DC = I_AC × √2 ≈ I_AC × 1.414 (for equivalent power transfer)
Converter Efficiency Guide
| Converter Type | Typical Efficiency |
|---|---|
| Linear Regulator | 30-60% |
| Basic Rectifier | 60-75% |
| Switch-Mode PSU | 80-90% |
| High-Efficiency SMPS | 90-96% |
Common Applications
- Phone Chargers: Convert 120V/230V AC to 5V DC
- Laptop Adapters: Convert AC to 19-20V DC
- LED Drivers: Convert AC to low-voltage DC
- Industrial Equipment: Power DC motors from AC mains
- Battery Charging: Solar inverters, UPS systems
Important Considerations
Note: Real-world DC output depends on many factors including rectifier type (half-wave, full-wave, bridge), filter capacitors, load current, and component quality.
Diode Voltage Drop
- Silicon Diodes: ~0.6-0.7V per diode
- Schottky Diodes: ~0.2-0.4V per diode
- Bridge Rectifier: 2× diode drop
Frequently Asked Questions
What affects converter efficiency?
Efficiency depends on converter topology, component quality, switching frequency, load conditions, and thermal management. Modern switch-mode power supplies achieve 85-96% efficiency.
Why is DC voltage lower than AC voltage?
The RMS (Root Mean Square) AC voltage represents the equivalent DC heating effect. The peak DC voltage from rectification is V_peak = V_AC × √2, but after filtering, the average DC is approximately V_AC × 0.707 minus losses.
Should I use theoretical or actual calculations?
For rough estimates, theoretical values work. For precise design, account for diode drops, transformer losses, and converter efficiency.
Converter Efficiency by Type
📉 Linear Regulators
30-60% efficiency
Simple, low noise, but inefficient
🔌 Basic Rectifiers
60-75% efficiency
Simple diode bridge circuits
⚡ Switch-Mode PSU
80-90% efficiency
Most common for electronics
🏆 High-Efficiency SMPS
90-96% efficiency
80 Plus certified supplies
⚠️ Note: Real-world AC to DC conversion involves complex factors including power factor, harmonic distortion, and load variations. This calculator provides theoretical estimates. For precise design, consult electrical engineering resources or professionals.