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Devices that use only DC, AC and both AC and DC current.

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  • 02-04-2011 4:20pm
    #1
    mink_man
    Closed Accounts Posts: 4,454 ✭✭✭


    What devices use just DC current, what devices use just AC current and what devices use both AC and DC? thanks for the help. :)


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    #2
    kippy
    Registered Users Posts: 18,602 ✭✭✭✭kippy


    mink_man wrote: »
    What devices use just DC current, what devices use just AC current and what devices use both AC and DC? thanks for the help. :)

    Lots.........in each category........depending on your definition of "device".


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    #3
    DublinDilbert
    Registered Users Posts: 5,379 ✭✭✭DublinDilbert


    An incandesent bulb or heater will work on AC or DC.

    A transformer will only work on AC.

    An LED will only light up when a dc voltage is applied to it....


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    #4
    Bruthal
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,422 ✭✭✭✭Bruthal


    Resistive loads will work on AC or DC. Any device which has a transformer such as a tv or radio with a 230v plug will only work on AC into the 230v plug as a transformer cant work on DC. But the same radios and some small tv`s actually are just powered from 12vdc from the secondary side of the transformers, and so could be powered from 12 volts or whatever the secondary voltage of the transformer is. Radios for example often also have a battery power option when the mains lead is removed or unplugged.

    Induction motors will only work on AC, for similar reasons that transformers only work on AC also, a simple enough concept for anyone with an understanding of the principles. A universal motor, used in vacuum cleaners, washing machine main motor, pumped electric showers, drills etc, will work on both AC or DC. A washing machine pump motor is a shaded pole motor though, which will only work on AC.

    Led`s should work on AC or DC i would of thought, as long as the AC voltage supplied directly onto them was low enough to keep its forward current within its limits, and this would be below its reverse maximum then anyway. Never tried that though.

    So something like an ordinary 60w or 100w bulb will work on AC or DC, so will a 230v drill, an immersion, an instant electric shower, a set of standard xmas tree lights(incandescent), an old style electric cooker. Newer cookers with electronics would have some problems maybe.

    Items like TVs and radios(230v plug ones) , energy saver bulbs, flourescent lighting, induction motors, microwave ovens, all need AC.


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