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CONVERTING ALTERNATING CURRENT
TO DIRECT CURRENT
In order to charge a battery, it is necessary to convert
alternating current (A.C.) to direct current (D.C.). This
is accomplished by using a diode or rectifier (diag.
3). A single diode makes use of only one half of the
A.C. signal and is known as HALF WAVE
RECTIFICATION (diag. 4). This is acceptable in
certain applications. In certain situations it is
necessary to make use of the entire A.C. signal. To
accomplish this, multiple diodes in a bridge
configuration are used to produce FULL WAVE
RECTIFICATION (diag. 5).
Full Wave Rectifier Bridge Rectifier
The full wave rectifier makes use of the entire A.C.
signal, converting it to D.C.
COMPONENTS
BATTERY
The batteries used in conjunction with Tecumseh
engines are 12 volt lead acid or maintenance free
style. The chemical energy produced by the dissimilar
metals of the battery plates provides a electrical
potential that is used to power the electric starter or
unit accessories. Consult the original equipment
manufacturers service manual for battery size,
capacities, and testing procedure.
WIRING
The wires used in Tecumseh electrical systems are copper stranded with an insulated coating around the
copper strands.
CONDITION:
All wiring must be fully insulated between connection points, securely fastened and free of
foreign material (such as rust and corrosion) at the connection points. This is especially important in the use of
batteries where much of the potential may be lost due to loose connections or corrosion. Remember to check
the insulation on the wire. All it takes is a pin hole for leakage to "ground out" on the engine or frame. This is of
special concern when moisture or water is present.
CATHODE
ANODE
3
HALF WAVE RECTIFIER
(SINGLE DIODE)
- VOLTAGE
+ VOLTAGE
A.C. INPUT
D.C. OUTPUT
4
+ VOLTAGE
- VOLTAGE
D.C. OUTPUT
FULL WAVE RECTIFIER
(BRIDGE RECTIFIER)
A.C. INPUT
- VOLTAGE
A.C. INPUT
+ VOLTAGE
- VOLTAGE
+ VOLTAGE
+ VOLTAGE (D.C.)
5
BAND OR OTHER
MARKING INDICATES
CATHODE END
Current flows through a diode when the anode is more positive than the cathode. The cathode end of the diode
should point toward the battery when diode is used between a charging system and a battery.
Half Wave Rectifier Single Diode
The single diode allows only the positive half of the A.C. signal through. It does not allow the negative portion
through.
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