I'm designing a power supply to deliver 6V DC with a zener diode acting as the regulator. I found out that there are two types of transformers that can be used. They can be center tap or a bridge. In center taps, we will use 2 diodes, while in bridge, we need 4. What are the pros and cons of each type and which is best suitable for my purpose? I think it's worth getting to know the advantage and disadvantage of using one or the other.
Electronic – Center tap vs. bridge transformer
transformer
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Best Answer
The full bridge has the disadvantage that you have two diode voltage drops, which may be up to 2 V. I don't think the cost of the two extra diodes will matter much.
I wouldn't recommend the center tap though: you have a lower voltage drop because only 1 diode conducts at a time, but you'll also use only half of the transformer. So where for the full bridge you could use for instance a 10 VA transformer for the center tap you'd need a 20 VA type.
The center tap should be avoided as much as possible. If the two diodes voltage drop for the full wave rectifier is a problem, you can probably use Schottky diodes.