How does a computer controlled alternator work?

An alternator works together with the battery to supply power for the electrical components of the vehicle. These systems are controlled by the vehicle Engine Control Unit (ECU). As the vehicle demands more load the ECU sends a signal to the alternator requesting it to start charging.

Does the computer control the alternator?

One of the most important components on any modern vehicle is the engine computer (or ECM) as it is responsible for a wide range of functions within the engine management system. One of these areas is the charging system which is made up of the battery, the voltage regulator, and the alternator.

How do you control an alternator?

To reduce alternator output, the electronic regulator increases the resistance between the battery and the rotor windings. The magnetic field decreases and less current is induced into the stator windings. Alternator speed and load determines whether the regulator increases or decreases charging output.

What controls the alternator output voltage and current?

alternator regulator
Current measurement The current flowing through the rotating solenoid (rotor) is the decisive factor for regulating the output generated by the alternator. This current is used to alter the magnetic field. It is controlled by the alternator regulator based on the battery voltage, which has been measured in advance.

Can controlled alternator charging?

The Alternator CANbus Controller can be connected to a current shunt to monitor current flow to and from the batteries, enabling the regulator to control charging based on a combination of system voltage and amperage delivered from the alternator to the batteries.

How is AC voltage inside the alternator changed to DC voltage at the output terminal?

The Rotor, Stator and Diodes The alternator is one such device that relies on a semi-conductor called a diode. The diode allows current to pass in only one direction and not the other. This converts alternating current (AC) voltage into direct current (DC) voltage the vehicle can use.

What is R and F on alternator?

The R and F terminals are the ‘Reference’ or voltage sense terminal and the ‘Field’ terminal. The color on the spade connectors doesn’t matter, you will have to use a multimeter to determine which connector goes to which pin. The R will be hot at all times while the F will only be hot when the ignition is keyed on.

Can an alternator fry a computer?

If the alternator doesn’t have the capabilities to power the given loads then voltage will not be stable and the alternator will burn out attempting to work above capacity. It is never the amperage capabilities of the alternator that causes damage. What can cause damage is too low voltage.

How do I adjust my alternator output?

Selecting different sized diodes can alter the output regulation of the alternator. A smaller diode will increase the charge voltage by more than a larger diode (due to the voltage drop varying with the diode current).

Can a computer control the output of an alternator?

Technician A says that the computer can be used to control the output of the alternator by controlling the field current. Technician B says that voltage regulators control the alternator output by controlling the field current through the rotor.

How does an external voltage regulator control an alternator?

An external voltage regulator controls the alternator by toggling the other field terminal; that is, it switches the other field terminal on and off to ground. The longer this field terminal is grounded, the longer the alternator charges, and vice versa. Suppose this earlier charging system doesn’t charge.

How is a magnetic field created in an alternator?

Technician A says that the diodes regulate the alternator output voltage. Technician B says that the field current can be computer controlled. Which technician is correct? A magnetic field is created in the ___________ in an alternator (AC alternator).

How does an alternator speed control unit work?

Engine rpm drives the hydraulic pump, the hydraulic drive turns the alternator. The speed control unit is made up of a wobble plate that adjusts hydraulic pressure to control output speed. Figure 3 shows a typical electrical circuit used to control alternator speed.

Which is the computer that controls the alternator?

The BPCU is the computer that controls the distribution of AC power to the power distribution busses located throughout the aircraft. There is typically one GCU used to monitor and control each AC alternator, and there can be one or more BPCUs on the aircraft.

How is the frequency of an alternator controlled?

The frequency is controlled by the CDS hydraulic unit in conjunction with signals monitored by the GCU. The GCU is also used to turn the AC alternator on or off. When the pilot selects the operation of an AC alternator, the GCU monitors the alternator’s output to ensure voltage and frequency are within limits.

How does the PCM work on an alternator?

The PCM, in turn, directs the duty cycle on and off as needed, based on the operating strategies programmed into its operating logic. Things like battery voltage, battery temperature, the load on the electrical system, to the engine load are all taken into account as to how much or when the alternator needs to produce energy.