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--- electrical:12v:alternator [2024/04/26 16:58]
frater_secessus [alternator current rating]
+++ electrical:12v:alternator [2024/04/26 17:11]
frater_secessus [sizing the wire]
@@ Line 113: / Line 113: @@
 See [[electrical:12v:alternator_details#heat|this sub-article]] on alternators and heat
+==== alternator current rating ====
+In general, vehicles with higher-rated alternators (150A, for example) will handle a given load better than vehicles with lower-rated alternators (60A, for example).  The rating in Amps will be listed on the window sticker, often on the alternator housing itself, or can be looked up using a VIN decoder for your automaker.
+see [[electrical:12v:alternator_details#current|this related article]] on assessing how much current you can safely take from the alternator
 ==== fuel consumption ====
@@ Line 648: / Line 656: @@
   - use [[electrical:12v:b2b|a DC-DC charger]] to get at least the correct charging voltage
   - if charging by relay only, use Crtical size wire to get the most voltage and current to the lead house battery
+==== triggering  ====
+The setup needs to be //triggered// (told when to start/stop) so that it isn't connected all the time.  There are two main methods:
+  - use of an ON/OFF 12v trigger signal ("D+", "IGN", "ACC").  When the 12v signal is present the charging circuit is operational.  Caveat:  in this kind of setup leaving the key in the ACC position without starting the engine can drain the starter battery.
+  - voltage-sensing - 12v is always being provided to the charger.  The batteries are connected when the chassis voltage is above a voltage setpoint (often ≥13.4v) and disconnected when the chassis side measures below  a setpoing (often ≤13.2v).
+In some cases both are combined for particular installs.  Ex.  smart alternators.
 ===== alternator hacks =====

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