A full-wave center-tapped rectifier is a circuit that converts both halves of an alternating current (AC) signal into pulsating direct current (DC) using a center-tap transformer and two diodes. The secondary winding of the transformer has a center tap connected to ground, splitting the AC signal into two equal halves. During the positive half-cycle, one diode conducts while the other is reverse-biased, allowing current through the load. In the negative half-cycle, the roles reverse, and the second diode conducts. This ensures current always flows in the same direction through the load, producing a smoother DC output than a half-wave rectifier.
