Power Supplies

QUESTION: What are the main types of power supplies used in aviation?

ANSWER: The main types of power supplies used in aviation are transformer-rectifier units (TRU), solid-state (SSU) power supplies, and inverters

QUESTION: What is the purpose of a transformer-rectifier unit (TRU) in an aircraft?

ANSWER: A transformer-rectifier unit (TRU) is used to convert alternating current (AC) from the aircraft's engines or external power source into direct current (DC) for the aircraft's electrical systems

QUESTION: How do solid-state (SSU) power supplies differ from transformer-rectifier units (TRU) in aviation?

ANSWER: Solid-state (SSU) power supplies use semiconductor devices to convert AC power into DC power, while TRUs use transformers and rectifiers to perform the same function

QUESTION: What role do inverters play in an aircraft's power supply system?

ANSWER: Inverters are used to convert DC power from the aircraft's batteries into AC power for certain electrical systems, such as avionics and entertainment systems

QUESTION: How do aircraft power supplies ensure a reliable and stable source of power for critical systems?

ANSWER: Aircraft power supplies are designed with redundancy and backup systems to ensure a continuous and stable source of power for critical systems, such as navigation and communication systems