In particle accelerators, rectifiers are used to convert the AC voltage into DC or low-frequency AC to supply loads like magnets or klystrons. Some loads require high currents, others high voltages, and others both high current and high voltage. This presentation deals with the particular class of line commutated rectifiers (the switching techniques are treated elsewhere). The basic principles of rectification are presented. The effects of real world parameters are then taken into consideration. Some aspects related to the filtering of the harmonics both on the DC side and on the AC side are presented. Some protection issues associated with the use of thyristors and diodes are also treated. An example of power converter design, referring to a currently operating magnet power supply, is included. An extended bibliography (including some internet links) ends this presentation
