Converters

Description

A converter is an electronic device or a circuit, which converts the input signal in one form to a signal in another form suitable for the operation of end electronic device, or a circuit. The component that is converted by a converter is usually a voltage or a current signal.

Types

Converters are of the following types:

• Power converters: Power converters include DC to AC converters, DC to DC converters and AC to DC converters.
  • AC to DC converters: Converter which converts alternating current into direct current by means of rectifier and a capacitor. The AC to DC converter is usually a power supply, which is used for the operation of electronic devices
  • DC to AC converters: Also known inverter, this converter converts direct current to alternating current of any required voltage and frequency by means of transformer and other control circuits
  • DC to DC converters: Converter which converts one voltage level into another level of regulated voltage
• Analog to Digital converters: Converter which converts the analog signal into discrete digital values such as binary code or grey code
• Digital to Analog converters: Converter which converts the discrete digital code into the corresponding analog signal
• Frequency converters: Also known as frequency changer, this converter converts AC current of one frequency into another frequency
• Phase converters: Converter which is used to convert single phase electrical power to three phase electrical power, thus allowing the three-phase equipment to be operated by a single phase power source

Applications

The following are the some of applications of the converters:

• DAC are used in CD players, digital music players, digital video players and PC sound cards
• DC to DC converters find application in cellular phones, laptops and other portable electronic devices
• Frequency converters control the speed of AC motors, pumps and fans in aerospace and airline industries