The Voltage Regulator

The Electrical System:
Voltage Regulator

There are a variety of voltage regulator designs working on automobiles, but the basic function is basically the same. The voltage regulator regulates the alternator’s electrical output and keeps output within safe range. When the battery is fully charged, the voltage regulates reduces the rate of charging.

Traditionally, the alternator is powered by the rotation of the crankshaft. Consequently, the faster the crankshaft rotates, hypothetically, the greater the amount of electricity generated the more electricity. After a prolonged period of time, the battery could be damaged.

Recently manufactured vehicles rely on onboard computers to regulate electrical system’s voltage

Warning Lights

Warning lights (indicator lights) alert drivers when a problem or condition occurs. Sensors located throughout your automobile are constantly monitoring events or conditions and reporting data readings back to a computer module. If a sensor reading appears out of a pre-determined range, a warning light may illuminate on the instrument panel to alert the driver.

In general, an amber-colored light indicates a problem has been detected and the automobile needs to be checked out by a service technician. If the light comes on and goes out periodically, the problem is intermittent. A constantly illuminated bulb indicates the problem is consistent but does not mean the problem is critical. Older automobiles may illuminate a "check engine" light. However, if the light flashes on and off, the problem is critical and continued operation may damage the vehicle.

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Article Pages
1. Electrical System
2. The Battery
3. The Starter
4. The Alternator
5. The Voltage Regulator
6. Lighting
7. Lighting System Basics
8. Interior Lights
9. Voltage
10. Turn Signals and Hazard Lights
11. The Horn
12. Windshield Wipers
13. The Defroster
14. Electrical Symbols
15. Types Of Electrical Circuits
16. Electrical Circuit Defects
17. Introduction To Automotive Batteries
18. Battery Construction
19. Battery Operation
20. Specific Gravity
21. Voltage And Capacity
22. Battery Ratings
23. Testing Automotive Batteries
24. Preventive Maintenance Of Batteries
25. Optical Battery & Antifreeze Tester
26. Measuring Specific Gravity With The Optical Battery Tester

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