What is the second component typically found in a power supply?

The second component typically found in a power supply is the rectifier. In power supply design, the rectifier plays a crucial role by converting alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). This is an essential step because most electronic circuits and devices require DC to operate effectively.

After the transformer steps down the voltage, the rectifier ensures that the current flows in a single direction. This can be achieved using various types of rectifiers, such as full-wave or half-wave rectifiers, which utilize diodes to accomplish the conversion from AC to DC.

Following this rectification process, additional components like filters are employed to smooth out the fluctuating DC output, but the rectifier itself is foundational as it directly alters the nature of the current. Understanding the function of the rectifier is critical for anyone studying power supplies as it showcases the process of converting and conditioning electrical energy for use in electronic devices.