Generators VS Alternators Tech Topic Presentation Mandi Fournier

What is a Generator? Machine where mechanical energy is changed into electrical energy Winding wires spin inside of a fixed magnetic field Produces DC voltages

What is an Alternator? Machine where mechanical energy is changed into electrical energy Magnetic field spins inside of the wire windings Produces AC voltages

Pros and Cons - Generator Pros: Produces DC – Doesn’t need to be rectified Will charge a dead battery Cons: Size – tend to be on the larger side Doesn’t charge at low RPM’s

Pros and Cons - Alternator Pros: Size – tends to be small Produces more power Cons: Produces AC – Needs to be rectified Will not charge a dead battery

Questions??