Editor's note: The modern alternator is a very sophisticated piece of equipment which has virtually replaced the generator because of its lighter weight, higher efficiency, longer life and lower ...

An alternator is a generator that produces the electricity stored in a vehicle’s 12-volt battery and powers the starter motor for the engine and the various computers, lights, power windows and locks, ...

Modern automotive alternators have a voltage regulator built into them. Typical car alternators generate the field using a DC current through slip rings. The field current is much smaller than the ...

We all expect our car to start every time we turn the key. And it usually will, as long as there’s enough electricity stored in the battery to do the job. That’s especially important when the ...