This paper discusses a novel boost single-phase active AC-DC converters, named low-end semi-controlled bridge AC-DC converter. By analysis, its topology and principle can be derived from the conventional single-phase power factor corrector (PFC). But it has also some differences, such as power device positions, inductor type, input voltage waveform detection and induction current detection, so its design is also different. The converter is implemented by employing two current detection approaches, i.e., current transformer detection and shunt resistor detection. Consequently, it can provide a steady DC output voltage with a low voltage ripple, approximately unitary input power factor and 2.5 kW output power. The experimental results show validity of the theoretical analysis.