by B. L. Babb

Created on: June 27, 2010

You car has an electrical system self-contained within (except for hybrid - battery powered cars, whereby the system is much more complicated). 

The typical vehicle electrical system consists of a 12 volt battery to store power, the starter - takes stored battery energy and uses it to turn the starter, the ignition coil - takes stored battery power and charges the coil field to provide the spark for the cylinders, the alternator generates power to recharge the battery as well as provides the power for all other electrical components when the engine is running, and the voltage regulator - a device to regulate the flow of power to ensure the battery isn't overcharged and sufficient power is available to run the electrical components powered on.

The electrical components include driving lights, interior lights, radios, GPS, heater, air conditioning, and to charge devices powered in the cigarette lighter socket (or power sockets on newer cars).

The alternator is belt driven from the front of the engine in the majority of autos on the market.  It is a copper winding with brushes and motor armature system whereby the spinning of the alternator creates an electrical field that the voltage regulator determines where it should be used.

Alternators contain diodes.  A diode is an electronic component that only allows electricity to flow in one direction through it.  This prevents the created power from returning to damage components in the unit.

Problems can arise if the alternator output is too low for a car.  This can be caused by a failure of a component or by the installation of high power devices that the alternator cannot support. 

Examples of high power devices include high intensity lighting (some want these systems for their vehicles) and powerful stereo amplifiers and other stereo components.

If you outfit your car with these items, ensure you do not overload your alternator. 

If buying a used car, you can tell if any of these components are installed or were installed by the heavy duty wiring near the battery (normally not removed when the components are removed) and a separate connection on the battery with a metal box for the high intensity lights.

The alternator's purpose on a car is simple.  It is there to generate the electricity to maintain a full battery charge as well as operate the factory installed systems on the car.  However, it is NOT designed to bring a discharged battery back to full charge. 

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