A data center rectifier is a device in a direct current data center power chain that converts the incoming alternating current (AC) power from the utility feed into direct current (DC) power. They are designed for high efficiency to minimize power loss during the conversion process.
Rectifiers also charge the battery strings that keep the DC power plants running during an outage until the utility power is restored and are equipped to regulate the DC output and maintain a stable voltage level to the equipment they connect to.
Uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units often use rectifiers to feed their backup energy storage system.
Key Components of Data Center Rectifiers
Data center rectifier typically include the following components:
- Transformers which regulate voltage levels to protect the rectifier and connected equipment from fluctuations.
- Rectification circuits that use diodes or semiconductors that allow current to flow in one direction only, effectively converting AC power to DC power.
- Filtering capacitators that smooth out any residual AC noise and provide a more stable DC voltage level.
- Control and regulation circuitry which monitors the output voltage and adjusts the rectifier’s operation to maintain the desired voltage.
- Cooling systems such as fans and heat sinks to maintain efficiency and longevity.
- Interfaces such as ethernet ports and Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) that allows for remote monitoring of the rectifier’s performance.
Track and Manage Rectifiers with DCIM Software
With modern Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) software, you can track all the items in your DC power chain from the power source down to the compute devices and track their electrical characteristics and interconnections. This makes it easy to understand the power capacity and load at any node in the system.
DCIM software also automatically generates dynamic and interactive single-line diagrams that help you visualize your DC power chain in a single pane of glass. You can track the rectifiers, utility feed, DC power plants, DC bays, and more, and see a details panel for each node that includes budgeted and actual values for voltage, current, and power rating.
Want to see how Sunbird’s award-winning DCIM software simplifies DC power chain management? Get your free test drive now.
