When a function generator is used to power a full wave rectifier an oscilloscope will not show the correct output due to a shared ground. A half wave is displayed because one of the diodes is 'shorted'. All of my research points me to the addition of an isolation transformer to separate the grounds. I am still somewhat new to transformers. We just finished covering mutual inductance and ideal/linear transformers in class so some things are still a little foggy.
I have found two different types of isolation transformers. The 'medical grade' type that have the duplex outlets and the bare 'case type-x'. The type x transformers have the 2 wires in and 3 wires out, depending on the presence of a center tap. So I guess my questions are as follows:
Which method should I use to break up my ground?
Should I invest in a transformer that has duplex outlets?(Tripp-Lite IS250HG or similar) I am not sure how these work, but I am guessing the generator and scope plug into the device and the device separates the two?
Should I buy a cheap TRIAD-N48X bare and terminate my function generator directly into the primary winding and continue my circuit from the secondary coil. Unfortunately, the TRIAD-N48x is the smallest isolation transformer I can easily find. It is rated for 115V/115V.
- I wouldn't mind using this method if the isolation transformer will perform with 5-10 volts of potential instead of the listed 115 volts. I assume the 115 is just the max voltage.
I am open to other suggestions. I am on spring break so I finally get a chance to start construction on an organized in-home electronic workshop. So if there is something that I should 'build in' now would be the time! Thanks for reading.