An alternator is an electromechanical device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. An alternator is so named because it produces alternating electrical current. This energy can be converted from one voltage to another using a transformer. Thus, the 12-volt AC output from an alternator can be transformed into 120 volt-AC current.
- 12-volt alternator
- Electrical transformer
- Electrical wire
- Electrical pliers
- Electronic (rosin core) solder
- Soldering iron
- Ring terminals (2)
Cut four lengths of wire. Strip ½ inch of insulation from the ends of each wire.
Attach one end of the first wire to one of the transformer's primary winding terminals and solder the wire to the terminal. Attach one end of the second wire to the remaining transformer's primary winding terminal and solder the wire to the terminal.
Attach one end of the third wire to one of the transformer's secondary winding terminals and solder the wire to the terminal. Attach one end of the fourth wire to the remaining transformer's secondary winding terminal and solder the wire to the terminal.
Slip a ring terminal over the free end of the third wire and solder the terminal to the wire. Slip the remaining ring terminal over the free end of the fourth wire and solder the terminal to the wire.
Attach the free end of the first wire to one of the alternator output terminals and solder the wire to the terminal. Attach the free end of the second wire to the remaining alternator output terminal and solder the wire to the terminal.
Things You'll Need
References
- Georgia State University: AC Generator (Alternator)
- “Electricity, Magnetism, and Light;” Wayne M. Saslow; 2002
About the Author
David Sandoval holds a degree in microelectronics, and has several years of experience in the technology field. He has written articles for eHow, Answerbag, and wiseGEEK in the disciplines of chemistry, electronics, and physics.