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Thread: Inverter versus 12v

  1. #51
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    Quote Originally Posted by nick_e View Post
    I think there is just ambiguity around the terms, and it's not surprising there is confusion.

    A (modern) car has an alternator that uses a voltage rectifier to output DC.

    A genset uses an alternator that puts out AC at mains voltage but they are marketed as 'generators'. Not sure if this is a throwback from the old days before AC took off or if its just a different, non technical use of the term generator.

    Actual generators aren't used that much out of specialised applications these days as far as I am aware. Most common applications have been replaced with either AC alternatives or electronics powered by rectified AC supply.
    Yeah, it confuses some of our workshop staff too who aren't used to them when we are talking alternators, some mechanics think we are talking about the battery charging alternator, not the main alternator. Makes it even worse when I clarify that with 'I mean the low voltage alternator' which they again think is the battery charging alternator - which is extra low voltage. 😁😇 I finally have to say 'The main alternator the mains power comes out of'...
    If you need to contact me please email homestarrunnerau@gmail.com - thanks - Gav.

  2. #52
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    Actually, it is the word "generator" that causes the confusion. A "generator" is not only a machine that generates electricity, but can be any number of machines that "generate" a product, such as water, gas, etc. Even money is referred to as "generating" an income.

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