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 ...