This document provides an overview of variable speed drives (VSDs), including how they work to vary the speed of AC motors, their applications, and information needed to size a VSD to a motor. VSDs work by rectifying AC input to DC, then switching the DC using IGBTs to produce a simulated AC waveform at varying frequencies to change motor speed. Common VSD applications include water pumps, fans, conveyors and lifts. Sizing a VSD requires motor data like kW rating, voltage, current and RPM from the motor nameplate.