1. Alternator vs Generator
Basic Theory
Advantages/Disadvantages

2. Inductance
Moving magnetic field in relation to conductor, generates electron flow
Electricity is generated
Faster movement, more flow
Larger field, more flow
Each conductor produces a fraction of output

3. Generator Windings spin within magnetic field
RPM limited, low RPM, low output
Magnetic strength has low variability
Operates well at high engine RPM
Generates it’s own field and flow from residual magnetism
It turns, it works

4. Alternator Magnetic field spins within windings
High variability in gauss
Low RPM, strong magnet
High RPM, weaker magnet
Needs voltage to generate voltage
Dead battery, no output

5. Alternator/Generator
Wide range of RPM
Lighter in weight
More delicate
Needs field current
More complicated
Narrow RPM range
Heavier for output
Bulletproof
Needs to turn
Very simple system

6. Electrical System Battery Alternator/Generator
Distributing busses/ Breakers
Switches
Devices/Appliances
Safeties

7. Battery Battery voltage, 24 volts Stores energy for start/ ground ops
Stabilizes against surges
Charges back from alternator
System voltage, 28 volts
Why the difference?

8. Distributing Busses Direct power to devices Circuit protection
In some cases, load shedding

9. Switches Energize circuit Directly or remotely
Remote, contactors, relays or solenoids
Higher power items are remotely controlled
Switches themselves are high drain
Knowledge is power

10. Devices/Appliances Radios, lights, fans etc. High drain items
Resistance heat and lights
Transmitters
Passive receivers
In-Flight troubleshooting
Transponder, DME or Comm radio

11. Safeties Circuit breakers/Fuses Overloads
Alt. control unit/Alt. field current
Most are nuisance trips
Reset and continue
Do not reset 2nd time