Use the textbook to define these Technical Terms:
1. alternator
2. alternator warning light
3. charging system
4. charging voltage
5. diode assembly
6. duty cycle
7. voltage regulator
8. overcharging
Use the textbook to answer these discussion questions:
1. Describe the operation of major 12-volt charging system components.
Read the chapter summary below:
Summary
■ The major parts of a 12-volt charging system include: an alternator, voltage regulator, drive belt, charge indicator, charging system harness, battery, and ECM.
■ The battery provides current to initially energize and smooth dc current output from the alternator.
■ An alternator is an ac generator that uses mechanical (engine) power to produce electricity.
■ The alternator rotor assembly is located in the center of the alternator housing, and creates a rotating magnetic field.
■ The alternator stator is a stationary set of windings that surrounds the rotor that carries the current generated.
■ The voltage regulator keeps alternator output at a preset charging voltage (13–15 volts). An ECM is sometimes used to supplement or replace the conventional voltage regulator to more precisely control the charging circuit.
■ A charge indicator can be an ammeter, voltmeter, or warning light. Indicators inform the driver of the operating condition or output of the charging system.
■ The major parts of a hybrid charging system include a motor-generator, hybrid instrumentation, HV power control module, HV battery, and hybrid control module.