Re: [Descriptions] was: [RANT] Trusting Mechanics (diagnosis)

["Bill Collins" <photo@intrex.net>]

>
>Alternators have built in voltage regulators. Generators dont.
>

Bzzzzt, wrong answer!

(in USA usage at least) Alternators produce alternating current (hence the name) by rotating a magnet inside a fixed coil of wire, then convert this to direct current using diodes.  Generators produce direct current by rotating coils of wire inside a magnet and using a carbon brush assembly to connect to whichever coil is in the correct position to produce maximum voltage. Either could have an internal or external regulator, but I have never seen a generator with internal regulator. Plenty of older alternators had external regulators.

Bill

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