Peak Inverse Voltage

Author: E.E. Kimberly

In the full-wave rectifier of Fig. 27-3 (b) either tube when not conducting will have impressed upon it a voltage equal to the peak value of the whole transformer. That voltage, which is called the peak inverse voltage, is attempting to force an electron current from anode to cathode (backward) through the tube. Therefore, when a diode is used in a full-wave rectifier, it should be chosen with proper regard for its rated peak inverse voltage.