XPost: sci.electronics.equipment, sci.electronics.design, sci.el   
   ctronics.basics   
   From: wb8foz@panix.com   
      
   Mike Perkins  writes:   
      
   >>> Where does the common winding terminal connect (there is a   
   >>> connection on the rectifier plate)? Where do the other 2 diodes   
   >>> connect?   
      
      
   That pictured alternator is one used on Hondas. ISTM it's a   
   Nippon-Densi or such.   
      
   I have too much experience with same. I went through 3-4   
   boneyard ones before I bought a rebuilt one from Retarded Auto   
   Parts. That brand/model alternator is nice because the diode   
   array unscrews easily.  No unsoldering needed.   
      
   That particular alternator has 4 pairs of power diodes; the   
   center point of the wye has a pair from there as well.... and I   
   have no idea why... Jim??   
      
   That said, all recent alternators also have a diode trio of tiny   
   diodes. Their function is to rectify enough power to excite the   
   rotor. It takes a few amps to drive it. Until it's up to speed,   
   that excitation comes from the battery, through the red idiot   
   light. When the alternator is up to speed, there is 12V on the   
   battery side of the lamp, and 12v on the load side....and it   
   goes out.   
      
      
      
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