Generating Voltage

Generating Voltage

Generator




In a generator, the conductor moves through a stationary magnetic field inducing voltage at the commutator, which connects to the circuit through brushes.

The voltage induced is direct current.

Alternator




In an alternator the magnetic field moves (rotates) through the stationary conductor producing voltage in the circuit.

The voltage induced is alternating current.

Ignition Coil




Voltage can be induced by the building or collapsing of a magnetic field across a stationary conductor.

B+ power is supplied by the battery and a magnetic field is set up around the coiled conductor. The DME grounds or pulls low the current from the conductor and the loss of current causes the magnetic field to collapse inducing voltage in the secondary conductor.