The controlled rectifier: Key to the continuing control renaissance

The semiconductor art is expanding at an exceedingly fast rate. New devices are being developed continually so that the use of even the famous transistor is beginning to decrease in some areas of application. The controlled rectifier is one of the most exciting of these new devices. This device was commercially introduced by the General Electric Company early in 1958 and has been in production ever since. Since the controlled rectifier is capable of performing many of the functions of magnetic amplifiers and thyratrons, it represents another tool with which the engineer should be acquainted. The degree to which this is accomplished will determine the new horizons which are possible in the application area.