How does a telecom rectifier work?

Telecom rectifiers convert AC to DC power at the base of macro towers so that DC power can be sent to the DC devices that need it at the top. Traditional telecommunications equipment generally requires 48V DC input power.

How much power does a telecom rectifier use?

The total power of a rectifier is DC output voltage multiplied by DC output current. Power ratings for telecom rectifiers vary from company to company, but these are the typical options: Low power ratings typically reach 400W, 800W, 1200W, 2000W, 2500W, 2900W or 3000W.

What is a boost stage in a telecom rectifier?

The boost stage often exists in the anatomy of a telecom rectifier as a byproduct of active power factor correction (PFC). Power factor needs to be corrected because there are typically reactive power losses along cables that result in voltage drop.

Does a rectifier need DC power?

In traditional telecom infrastructure (before the introduction of Class 4 power systems), DC power flowing from a rectifier to DC devices would be low-voltage (usually 48V DC), but high current, and high power. The conversion from AC to DC is necessary to power devices that require DC power, such as telecom cells.

Are Telecom rectifiers safe?

Traditional telecom rectifiers have been a decent option for providing DC power to macrocells, small cells and other DC loads, in telecom infrastructure. They supply low-voltage DC power, which is adequate for 4G telecom systems and below, and they’re relatively safe for telecom technicians to work on.

What is the efficiency rating of a telecom rectifier?

The efficiency rating for telecom rectifiers can usually be pretty high. Unipower and Huawei, for example, provide equipment with an efficiency of up to 96%. This equipment only loses about 4% power that passes through the rectifier as it converts AC to DC power.