摘要 |
<p>A light socket (100) is disclosed that has a built-in integrated circuit (50 ) for rectifying the alternating current (150) received from an electrical outlet and limiting the direct current produced. The light socket (100) is specifically suited for low-current, low-voltage applications such as supplying DC to a string of ornamental lights (140). The integrated circuit (50) has a diode (24) with a modified cathode that acts as a fuse as it is rectifying the alternating current (150). The cathode is formed of a plurali ty of electrically parallel conductors. Excessive current blows out at least so me of these conductors in the same way a conventional fuse blows. Various embodiments add other current-limiting elements, elements for producing full wave (72) or near full wave rectification, and for opening the circuit when they detect extraneous currents.</p> |