How Do Three-Way Converters Work for Campers?

Alternating Current

• Alternating current derives its names because the electricity in the wires changes directions many times per second. It is used for our residential and commercial electrical supply because it is better-suited for long distance transmission. In North America, our alternating current is set to 60 hertz, it changes direction 60 times per second. Because the power changes direction very quickly, the devices attached to it are not affected by this transition.

Direct Current

• Direct current is electricity that flows in only one direction. It is commonly used in automobiles and recreational vehicles because the electricity is not required to travel very far. You can change the direction of the power by reversing the positive and negative connections at the power supply. DC is also generated by fuel cells, solar panels and generators.

How Converters Work

• A converter is a device that detects the needs of the electrical devices attached to it and delivers the power as required. It also changes a 120-volt AC power supply to 12-volt DC power. When the RV is plugged into an AC power source at a campground, the converter changes that power to suit the needs of the DC appliances on board. This is done automatically and goes unnoticed by the occupants. When the camper is on the road, it derives its power from camper's batteries or the vehicle's alternator which provide the necessary electricity for the DC devices. The DC to AC conversion is done through the process rectification. There are several ways to accomplish the conversion but the most common is through the use of silicon-controlled rectifiers or solid state diodes. These circuits only allow the electricity to pass through them in one direction thus creating DC current.

Types of DC Devices

• Camper DC power draw is commonly a lower amperage than the AC equivalent. This limits the types of devices it can power to those with lower electrical needs. On a camper, these devices are commonly lights, roof vents, water pumps and radios. The appliances that have high electrical needs require AC power. These are the air conditioner, coffee maker, electric water heater, microwave, washer and dryer.