Definition
A device that changes one form of energy, signal, or quantity into another. In aircraft systems, common examples include a rotary converter or static inverter that changes direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC), and instrument converters that change a sensor signal into a usable display reading.
Plain English
Something that takes one type of input and turns it into a different type of output the aircraft can use.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical system descriptions, avionics power supplies, and maintenance discussions about equipment that needs a specific type of electrical power.
Derivation
From Latin convertere, meaning 'to turn around' or 'to change.' A converter changes something from one form into another — the meaning carries straight across into aviation.
Why Pilots Care
Aircraft generators often produce one type of power while many instruments and avionics need another; a faulty converter can disable essential systems in flight.
Intuition Check
Do not think of a converter as just a plug adapter. In an aircraft, it changes electrical power into the correct form for a specific system or piece of equipment.
Example Sentence 1
The static converter changes the aircraft's 28-volt DC into the 115-volt AC needed by the attitude indicator.
Example Sentence 2
A failed converter forced the pilot to rely on battery power alone for the remaining flight.