POWER ELECTRONICS Inverter vs converter: What's the difference?

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Inverters and converters have fundamentally similar functions but there are key differences in the types of applications and use cases that mean they’re two very different components. Let's take a look at their differences.

Inverters and converters are two important power electronics components that play a crucial role in converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), and vice versa.

What’s the difference between AC vs DC?

AC and DC are two different types of electrical current that are used in different power applications.

In AC current, the direction of flow changes periodically, typically many times per second. This change in direction allows AC to be easily transformed between different voltages, which is advantageous for long-distance transmission. This reduces power loss over distances, making it the predominant choice for national power grids. Most homes and businesses use AC for power outlets, as it is the standard for public electricity supply.

In DC current, the flow direction is constant, moving steadily in one direction from the negative to the positive terminal. This makes DC ideal for applications requiring stable and consistent power, making it less efficient over long distances due to the difficulty in changing voltages. DC is commonly used in battery-powered devices, electronics, and low-voltage applications and is essential for devices that require stable, unidirectional power, such as computers, LED lighting, and electric vehicles.

The conversion between AC and DC therefore enables current to be changed to suit the requirements of different applications. AC to DC conversion is primarily used in battery-powered electronics whereas conversion from DC to AC is primarily used in renewable energy applications—for example, where the DC power generated by solar panels is converted to power AC electronics such as home appliances.

BASIC KNOWLEDGE - AC VS. DC

What's the difference between AC and DC power?

What is a converter?

A converter is a device that changes the voltage of an electrical power source. It can also refer to a device that converts the type of electrical current from AC to DC or vice versa, but these are more specifically known as AC to DC converters (rectifiers) and DC to AC converters (inverters). Converters essentially adjust the power to a level that is compatible with a specific device or appliance.
The two main types of converters are AC to DC converters (rectifiers) and DC to DC converters:

• Rectifiers: These devices convert AC into DC. They are commonly used in various electronic devices, including laptops and smartphones, which operate on DC power.

• DC to DC converters: These converters adjust the DC voltage level up or down. They are essential in devices that require different DC voltage levels from what is available from the power source, such as in electric vehicles and solar power systems.

What is an inverter?

In contrast, an inverter is a specific type of converter that converts DC into AC. The primary function of an inverter is to allow devices that operate on AC power to use DC power sources, like batteries or solar panels.

There are various applications of inverters, including:

• Renewable energy systems: In solar and wind energy systems, inverters convert the DC electricity generated by solar panels or wind turbines into AC electricity, making it compatible with the grid or for direct use in homes and businesses.

• Backup power supplies: Inverters are integral to uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), providing an AC power source from batteries when the main power supply fails.

• Electric vehicles: Inverters in electric vehicles convert the DC power from the battery to AC power to drive the electric motors.

DIRECT CURRENT

What's the difference between AC-DC and DC-DC power supplies?

Key differences between inverters vs converters

The fundamental difference between inverters and converters can be found in their functionality. Converters change the voltage of an electrical power source and can convert AC to DC (rectification) or DC to AC (inversion). Inverters specifically convert DC into AC.
There’s also a difference between their applications. Converters are used in a broad range of applications, from electronic devices to electric vehicles, adjusting voltage levels or converting current types. Inverters are specifically used where AC power is required, but only DC power is available, such as in renewable energy systems, backup power supplies, and electric vehicles.
While both inverters and converters play important roles in the management of electrical power, their specific functions cater to different applications and use cases.

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